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Westchester Children's Association (WCA) is congratulating Nora Nicholson, its former Director of External Affairs, on being named to City & State New York's 2026 Unsung Heroes list, published on November 9th in a special edition. Nicholson was recognized for her work at WCA, where she oversaw fundraising and communications strategies that expanded resources for children and families across Westchester County.
City & State's annual Unsung Heroes list recognizes key players who operate behind the scenes and make things happen across New York. Now in its second year, the list highlights deputies, directors and other leaders whose work is indispensable to their organizations but often happens out of the spotlight.
“In just over two years, Nora helped WCA reach more supporters, raise more resources and share the real experiences of Westchester's families with the people who can make a difference for them," said Adam Rabinovitch, Executive Director of Westchester Children's Association. "From a record-breaking benefit to a new brand and website, so much of what WCA accomplished during her time here carries her fingerprints, even when her name wasn't on it. That is exactly what it means to be an unsung hero, and we are thrilled to see City & State recognize her."
Since joining WCA in April 2024, Nicholson developed and executed multi-channel fundraising campaigns, including a record-breaking benefit that raised $175,000. She led the organization's rebranding initiative and the launch of a new website to better connect with supporters and partners, while building and stewarding the donor and partner relationships that sustain WCA's mission.
Nicholson also supported WCA's advocacy for children in poverty, collaborating with local agencies and amplifying families' voices through communications and storytelling. Her work strengthened WCA's public presence and positioned the organization as a trusted voice for child advocacy in Westchester County.
Nicholson has since moved on to a new role as Assistant Village Manager for the Village of Croton-on-Hudson.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be recognized by City & State as an Unsung Hero. So much of the work that strengthens our communities happens behind the scenes, carried out by dedicated individuals who rarely receive recognition. At Westchester Children’s Association, I share this honor with the entire team, whose tireless commitment to advocating for the children of Westchester County is truly inspiring. Advocacy often requires persistence and patience, with meaningful change taking years to achieve, and I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together.
Now, in my role as Assistant Village Manager for the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, I have an even greater appreciation for the many unsung heroes who work every day to keep our communities running and improve the lives of residents. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the public and to work alongside people who are so deeply committed to making a difference.” For more information about Westchester Children's Association, visit wca4kids.org.
About Westchester Children’s Association
Westchester Children’s Association is the leading independent voice for children and youth in Westchester County. Since 1914, WCA has worked to identify the needs of Westchester’s young people, make those needs known and ensure that they are addressed. Through data analysis, public and policy engagement and community mobilization, WCA works toward a future in which every child is healthy, safe and prepared for life’s challenges, regardless of race or ZIP code.
