Albany, NY – Amelia LoDolce, Executive Director of Volunteers Improving Neighborhood Environments (VINES), was honored as part of the NYS Legislative Women’s Caucus “Women’s History Month” celebration. This year’s theme was “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” Amelia was nominated for the recognition by Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo.

The day’s activities included a luncheon with the Legislative Women’s Caucus members and recognition on the floor of the Assembly and Senate. During the month of March, the honorees are also featured in a display on the Concourse. LoDolce is described as “a community leader focused on sustainable urban agriculture, food security, and youth development.” (see attached photo)

Amelia joined VINES as the organization’s first Executive Director in February 2016. As a volunteer, she began working with VINES in 2007 as a founding board member and the coordinator of the Liberty Street Community Garden. Prior to joining VINES, Amelia served as the City of Binghamton’s Sustainable Development Planner and worked for the United Way of Broome County.

Amelia holds a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Food, and the Environment from Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Binghamton University. Having grown up on a farm in Otisco, NY, she is passionate about cultivating a connection to food among her fellow community members, especially those living in urban areas with limited access to fresh and local produce.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “I was happy to nominate Amelia LoDolce for this year’s Women’s History Month celebration. Having known Amelia for many years, she was an obvious choice for this year’s theme of women shaping a sustainable future. Her exemplary leadership has grown VINES into a statewide model for community gardens, youth development, and sustainable food systems. She has inspired many to follow in her path, helping to grow a new generation of community leaders.”

Amelia LoDolce said, “I’m honored to receive this recognition and grateful to be nominated by Assemblywoman Lupardo, whose leadership and dedication have helped pave the way for leaders like myself. Growing up on a farm instilled in me a deep respect for the land, and working in Binghamton for the last 20 years I’ve seen the power of connecting people to fresh, healthy food. Sustainability is about more than protecting our natural environment – it’s about advancing social justice, ensuring equitable access to healthy food, and building strong, thriving communities for everyone.”