Gilbert Landry Named 2013 Citizen of the Year

The Pittsford Town Board has selected Gilbert P. Landry as Pittsford’s 2013 Citizen of the Year. The Board surprised Mr. Landry with the honor at the Elderberry Express annual volunteers’ luncheon on Friday, May 16.

Gil Landry has served as the Executive Director of Elderberry Express since 2001, during which time he has managed a dedicated group of volunteers who have helped hundreds of seniors stay connected and engaged in our community.

“Gil exemplifies the values and virtues of our community,” said Pittsford Town Supervisor Bill Smith. “He leads Elderberry with capability and purpose and steps in when needed as driver, dispatcher or scheduler. Modestly, without fanfare or calling attention to himself, Gil is there for whatever it takes to accomplish the task.”

Elderberry Express is a not-for-profit organization consisting of approximately 90 Pittsford residents providing complimentary transportation service to seniors in Pittsford for medical and other appointments, family visits and activities at the Town’s VanHuysen Senior Center.

The board resolution noted Mr. Landry was recognized for his “unassuming and effective leadership” of Elderberry Express as well as his involvement in all levels of the organization. Mr. Landry regularly steps in wherever needed to ensure the seniors in the Pittsford community maintain their independence through this vital community program. He often takes on the role of volunteer scheduling, handles client calls for service and even drives clients to appointments himself when needed.

“Through his efforts, Gil enables our seniors to access needed services, maintain connections to family and friends, and enjoy enriching social activities” said Supervisor Smith. “His generous, committed and humble spirit of giving makes Gil an outstanding asset not only to our seniors but to our entire community. We felt it was quite fitting to honor him in this way.”

The Pittsford Citizen of the Year award is presented annually to a Pittsford resident whose hard work, generosity and dedication has improved the quality of life in the Pittsford community. Nominations are submitted by Pittsford residents and the honoree is selected by the Pittsford Town Board. Click the following link for a list of previous honorees.

2013 Pittsford Citizen of the Year Gil Landry.