Franklin Square resident Ellen Andrasick has been named Senior Citizen of the Year in Nassau County, an honor recognizing her decades of service and involvement in the community.
“I have enjoyed working with Ellen and cannot think of anyone more deserving for this honor,” said Joe Armocida, president of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, America Lodge 2245, in Franklin Square.
Nassau County Legislator John Giuffré made the announcement during the lodge’s March 18 installation dinner, drawing applause from attendees who gathered to celebrate their newly elected officials.
“Every year, Nassau County chooses a senior citizen, a man and a woman, and legislators are asked to submit a name of somebody who resides within their district,” Giuffré said. “This year, the nominee we advanced was selected as Senior Citizen of the Year, and that is our own Ellen Andrasick.”
For Andrasick, the recognition came quite unexpectedly.
“I’m totally shocked, I’m surprised,” she said. “I just like to do things, and I don’t expect anything in return. All I want is a thank you.”
Andrasick, 86, has been a member of America Lodge 2245 since 2013 and has remained an active and visible presence within the group. Over the years, she has served as orator and currently holds the position of trustee. In addition to her leadership roles, she plays a key part in the lodge’s day-to-day activities, overseeing advertising for its “Lions Roar” newsletter and organizing casino trips that bring lodge members together.
Fellow lodge members described her as dedicated and dependable, consistently stepping up to support others and strengthening the organization’s sense of community.
Her commitment to service, however, extends far beyond the lodge.
Andrasick has long been active in local schools and youth programs. She was involved in the PTA at Polk Street School, which her two sons attended, eventually serving as PTA president. She also volunteered with youth sports through the Police Athletic League, where she helped organize a baseball division at a time when volunteers were needed.
Her involvement in civic life also includes leadership roles with the Community League of Garden City South. She began as a director, later serving as secretary and vice president before returning to a director’s role. She continues to attend the community league’s meetings and remains engaged in community issues.
“I just like being with people and helping people,” Andrasick said. “If someone needs something, I’ll try to be there.”
That mindset has carried into her advocacy for older adults in the community. Andrews has worked to support initiatives aimed at increasing income eligibility thresholds for tax relief programs, helping more residents qualify for benefits.
In addition to her civic and volunteer work, Andrasick has been an active member of community organizations for more than a decade, including the Sons and Daughters of Italy, of which she and her late husband, Bob, were both involved.
She described her husband as a constant source of encouragement and support throughout her years of service.
“He was very kind, peaceful, happy-go-lucky guy. Everybody loved him,” she said.
Andrasick said their shared commitment to staying active and connected helped shape her approach to community involvement.
“We liked being around people all the time,” she said. “That’s what kept us going.”
Andrasick was selected for the honor through a nomination process involving local legislators, with candidates representing communities across Nassau County. As part of the recognition, she is expected to be honored at a luncheon joining other honorees from across New York State in May.
Despite the recognition, Andrasick said she remains focused on the same values that have guided her for years.
“I just like to help people,” she said. “If I can do something for someone, I will.”
