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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING AND CELEBRATING SHARON PRESTON FOR HER EXCEPTIONAL DEDICATION TO HUMANITARIAN SERVICE AND COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
WHEREAS, in 1963, Sharon Preston was born in Chicago, Illinois. Sharon Preston is a devoted single mother of two sons and a tireless champion of humanitarian causes, whose life’s work exemplifies unparalleled altruism and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society; and
WHEREAS, Sharon Preston is the distinguished Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Flags Of The Heart, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization epitomizing the ethos of service by providing critical support to veterans, their families, and underserved populations across diverse communities, irrespective of race, nationality, or socioeconomic status; and
WHEREAS, for over 13 years, Sharon Preston demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering resolve in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalized individuals by fostering inclusivity and equity through a comprehensive array of transformative services; and
WHEREAS, under Sharon Preston’s visionary stewardship, Flags Of The Heart rendered aid to over 50,000 individuals and families through myriad initiatives, including but not limited to:
• Facilitating financial assistance for utility payments,
• Connecting individuals and families with housing resources,
• Offering complimentary expungement eligibility counseling,
• Coordinating summer nutrition programs for the youth of the community,
• Distributing holiday provisions such as Easter turkeys and hams, festive baskets, Thanksgiving food boxes, school supplies, and backpacks,
• Organizing signature events such as the annual Christmas in July celebration, as well as orchestrating Christmas toy giveaways in collaboration with Stroger Hospital and Toys for Tots,
• Providing essential items including home goods, clothing, footwear, baby necessities, and furniture to economically disadvantaged individuals,
• Assisting in the establishment of food pantries and community resource programs for other organizations, and
• Delivering over 40,000 face masks to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during its peak; and
WHEREAS, Sharon Preston also serves as a mentor, guide, and spiritual beacon to her community. Sharon’s unwavering dedication to kindness, compassion, and empowerment serves as an inspiration to all who encounter her; and
WHEREAS, Sharon Preston’s guiding principle, “Not a Handout but a Hand Up,” underscores her philosophy of fostering dignity, self-sufficiency, and empowerment among those she serves; and
WHEREAS, Sharon Preston’s extraordinary contributions receive deserved recognition at the national level through her receipt of the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the White House, one of the highest honors bestowed for distinguished community service; and
WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners acknowledges Sharon Preston’s transformative impact on countless lives and her indelible contributions to the advancement of humanitarian causes within Cook County and beyond; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, WE, BILL LOWRY, COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER OF THE 3rd DISTRICT, AND TONI PRECKWINKLE, PRESIDENT OF THE COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONER, does hereby recognize and commend Sharon Preston for her exceptional achievements, exemplary leadership, and unwavering dedication to uplifting and empowering individuals and families in need; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that an official copy of this resolution be presented to Sharon Preston as a testament to the profound respect and deep appreciation of the Office of Cook County
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