Sunday, April 27, 2025
Jeanine Badalamenti, 46, a lifelong resident of Oceanside, has been honored with the eadership award by the Kiwanettes of Oceanside.
Badalamenti shared her journey of community involvement, her professional commitments, and her passion for making Oceanside a better place to live.
Q: When did you first learn you’d be receiving the Leadership Award, and what does it represent?
A: “I found out in the fall of 2024 that I would be receiving the leadership award. The award recognizes my involvement with various local organizations and charities. It’s an honor to be acknowledged by an organization that has been part of our community since 1955, especially alongside someone as inspirational as Betsy Transom, who’s receiving the Public Service Award.”
Q: Can you tell us about your community involvement and the organizations you support?
A: “I am the First Vice President of the Kiwanis Club, I’m a founding member of Oceanside Unified, and I’m on the board of Oceanside Community Service. I’ve been involved in community work since high school—volunteering, fundraising, and participating in clubs that give back. This long-standing commitment has shaped who I am today.”
Q: As a lifelong Oceansider, what inspires you about this community?
A: “I was born and raised here, and my mom too. What makes Oceanside special is the people—when you build friendships that feel like family, it creates a strong sense of belonging. Our schools are fantastic, and our community activities, from athletics to local organizations like Unified Soccer and CYO with St. Anthony’s, really highlight the big hearts of our residents.”
Q: How do you balance your professional career, community work, and family life?
A: “I see it not as juggling, but as doing what I love. Professionally, I serve as the Executive Vice President at the New York Building Congress, where I manage strategic partnerships, fundraising, and more—a role I’ve held for 15 years. I’m also a mom; my daughter, Julianna, is a Sophomore studying human development at SUNY Binghamton, and my son, TJ, is excelling in track and is even the captain of the Oceanside Juniors Fire Department. I’m fortunate to have a supportive husband, Anthony, who’ll never say no if I ask him to help.”
Q: You’ve been a driving force behind community events. What event are you most proud of?
A: “Our fall festival, now in its third year, is something very close to my heart. Along with six other dedicated Oceanside residents, we started this event to create a sense of community pride and togetherness. Each year, we aim to raise the bar with more activities, better weather, more entertainment, and increased involvement from local vendors. Our goal is to establish lasting traditions that bring the community closer together.”
Q: What do you think is the key to building a strong community?
A: “Mutual respect and openness. It’s important for everyone to share their opinions and work together towards a common goal. The institutional knowledge and willingness to collaborate among local boards, educational institutions, and community organizations make a huge difference.”
Q: How do you view your role within all these community organizations?
A: “I tend to work behind the scenes, quietly and make a large impact. I’m grateful to be involved in so many groups that contribute their time and expertise. It’s not about one person; it’s about the collective effort of everyone involved.”
Q: How did you feel upon receiving the Leadership Award?
A: “I was thrilled and honored. It’s incredibly validating to have my efforts recognized by such a respected organization. Sharing the recognition with Betsy Transom, who has dedicated so much to Oceanside, makes this award even more special.”
Badalamenti’s dedication to Oceanside shines through her work in various community organizations, her professional career and her commitment to family and friends. Badalamenti will be honored at the upcoming Kiwanettes of Oceanside Leadership Award Ceremony on March 27 at Lambrou’s in Island Park. The ceremony will also recognize Public Service Award honoree Betsy Transom.
