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The Officer Edwin Martinez Awards, 3300 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, NY (2026)

11/05/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Moses Aponte :

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation is proud to announce Moses Aponte as the recipient of the 2025 Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award for an Outstanding College Student.
The Foundation, established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez, was created to honor his legacy of service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the Rochester community. Officer Martinez proudly served the Rochester Police Department for 14 years, dedicating his life to mentorship, advocacy, and protection—especially for the city’s youth. His legacy continues through the Foundation’s mission to uplift and recognize individuals who embody his spirit of leadership and service.
In 2024, the Foundation expanded its impact by introducing the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, honoring community members who reflect the character, integrity, and selflessness that defined Officer Martinez. This year, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 exceptional community members and one outstanding college student—Moses Aponte.
A graduate of the School of the Arts, Moses excelled both academically and athletically. He was an honor student and a dedicated baseball player for five years, and his love for the sport continues today through participation in local softball leagues. Now in college, Moses is pursuing a degree in Business and Entrepreneurship, demonstrating a passion for leadership and innovation.
Moses follows in the footsteps of his father, Luis Aponte, who was honored in 2024 with the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award. The Aponte family's dedication to service and community reflects the very values Officer Martinez stood for.
We are incredibly proud of Moses Aponte—not only for his accomplishments, but for the positive example he sets for other young people in our community. His drive, character, and commitment to growth make him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Congratulations, Moses! The future is bright, and we can't wait to see where your journey takes you.

Luis Aponte Lizsandra Aponte

10/24/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Barbara Barker of Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation, established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez, continues to honor his legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to the Rochester community. A devoted member of the Rochester Police Department for 14 years, Officer Martinez was known for his commitment to mentoring and supporting the city’s youth. His profound impact endures through the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to recognize and celebrate individuals who embody his values of integrity, leadership, and selfless service.
In 2024, the Foundation expanded its mission with the creation of the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, designed to honor outstanding members of the Rochester community who exemplify the strength of character and spirit of service that Officer Martinez represented.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 exceptional community members and one outstanding college student. Among this year’s top recipients is Barbara Barker of Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women.
For the past 15 years, Mrs. Barker has served the Mercy community as an exceptional and dynamic Science teacher. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom as she willingly takes on any task that supports her students and colleagues. As moderator of Mercy’s award-winning Robotics Team, she has guided students to numerous accolades and inspired countless young women to pursue their passions in STEM.
The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation and the entire Mercy community congratulate Barbara Barker on this well-deserved recognition. Her passion, commitment, and leadership continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of her students and the broader community.

10/22/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Charles Salina:

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation proudly recognizes Charles Salina as a distinguished recipient of the 2025 Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award for his steadfast commitment to making a meaningful difference in the City of Rochester and across Western New York.
Appointed by President Barack Obama on July 11, 2011, to serve as United States Marshal for the Western District of New York, Mr. Salina has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to public service, leadership, and community impact. His service reflects the integrity, strength of character, and selfless devotion that defined Officer Martinez’s life and legacy. The Foundation is honored to celebrate Mr. Salina's contributions to justice, safety, and community uplift.

10/21/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Jorge Cruz:

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation is proud to announce Jorge Cruz as one of the recipients of the 2025 Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, in recognition of his exceptional service, dedication, and impact within the Rochester community.
Founded in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez, the Foundation was created to honor his legacy of service, compassion, and mentorship. A beloved member of the Rochester Police Department, Officer Martinez served for 14 years as an advocate and protector—especially for the city’s youth. His legacy lives on through the Foundation’s mission: to uplift those who reflect the strength of character and selfless service he embodied.
In 2024, the Foundation expanded its reach by introducing the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, designed to honor individuals in the Rochester community who exemplify integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to others. In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student.
It is with great pride that the Foundation recognizes Mr. Jorge Cruz, a true pillar of the Eugenio Maria de Hostos school community. Since February 16, 2004, Mr. Cruz has served in various roles over the course of 21 years, including Student Support, Paraprofessional, and ART Instructor for the 21st Century ELT Program. Today, he continues to inspire and uplift as the Elementary Campus ART Teacher.
Mr. Cruz’s creativity and dedication have shaped the educational journey of countless students. His contributions to school plays, campus beautification projects, and the design of engaging bulletin boards have brought vibrancy to the school environment. Through the ELT Program, he has provided students with opportunities to explore their artistic talents and express themselves meaningfully.
For over two decades, Mr. Cruz has gone above and beyond to nurture students’ creativity, foster academic growth, and create a space where children feel encouraged to succeed. His work reflects the very essence of what the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award stands for.
Congratulations, Mr. Jorge Cruz, and thank you for your remarkable service and lasting impact on the hearts and minds of our youth.

10/17/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation honors Phillis Blake:
The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation is proud to announce Phillis Blake as one of the distinguished recipients of the 2025 Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award.
Founded in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez, the Foundation was created to honor his extraordinary legacy of service and compassion. Officer Martinez, a dedicated member of the Rochester Police Department, served the community for 14 years as a mentor, advocate, and protector—especially for the youth of Rochester. His unwavering commitment to uplifting others continues through the work of the Foundation today.
Each year, the Foundation recognizes students who embody the spirit of service that Officer Martinez exemplified throughout his life. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its mission to honor adult changemakers through the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award—recognizing individuals in the Rochester community whose lives reflect character, integrity, and selfless dedication to others.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student. Among this year’s top honorees is Phillis Blake, an integral part of the Penfield community.
As a teaching assistant and advisor to the Black Student Union (BSU) Club, Phillis Blake goes far beyond her roles. She is a powerful mentor, shaping, guiding, and inspiring students to become the best versions of themselves. Her influence reaches beyond the classroom, touching lives and planting seeds of confidence, pride, and purpose in our youth.
Your impact, Phillis, is deeply felt and truly appreciated. On behalf of the Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation, we thank you for your continued service to the community and your unwavering commitment to our future generations.

Maycanitza Perez

10/16/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Michelle Calderon and Margaret Dayton

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award.
Established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez, the Foundation was created to honor his legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to the Rochester community. Officer Martinez served with the Rochester Police Department for 14 years, distinguishing himself as a mentor, advocate, and protector—particularly for the city’s youth. His unwavering commitment continues to inspire and uplift through the Foundation’s ongoing work.
Each year, the Foundation recognizes students with who embody Officer Martinez’s values of service, leadership, and integrity.
In 2024, the mission was expanded with the creation of the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, which honors individuals in the Rochester community who reflect the same character and selfless service that Officer Martinez exemplified.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student for their contributions to our city.
Among this year’s top honorees are two remarkable women: Michelle Calderon and Margaret Dayton, sisters and officers with the Rochester Police Department. These “sisters in blue—and in life” have gone above and beyond in their roles, demonstrating unwavering compassion, strength, and commitment to serving and protecting our community. Their dedication has made a profound impact, especially on Rochester’s youth, and serves as a powerful example of what it means to lead with heart.
Twin Calderón Sammie Junior

10/15/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Ismadelin Santana :

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation was established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez to honor his legacy of service and compassion. A dedicated member of the Rochester Police Department, Officer Martinez served for 14 years as a mentor, advocate, and protector—especially for the city’s youth. His unwavering commitment to his community left a profound and lasting impact, one that continues through the work of the Foundation today. Each year, the Foundation recognizes students who embody the values and spirit of service that Officer Martinez exemplified throughout his life. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its mission by creating the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, designed to honor individuals in the Rochester community who reflect the strength of character, integrity, and selfless service that Officer Martinez represented. In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student. Among the top recipients of this year’s Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award is Ismadelin Santana, recognized for her commitment to education and her efforts to support our community's children. She volunteers numerous hours with the Latino Youth Development and Resource Center LYD/PRYD, to make a difference in the lives of each child she meets. Her compassion, dedication, and service truly embody the values that Officer Martinez lived by.

10/14/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors: Antwan Collier and Jeremiah Schufelt

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation was established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez to honor his legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to the Rochester community. A committed member of the Rochester Police Department, Officer Martinez served for 14 years as a mentor, advocate, and protector—especially for the city’s youth. His unwavering commitment to others left a lasting impact, one that continues through the Foundation’s ongoing work.
Each year, the Foundation recognizes students who embody the values and spirit of service that Officer Martinez exemplified throughout his life. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its mission with the creation of the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, an honor designed to recognize individuals in the Rochester community who reflect the strength of character, integrity, and selfless service that defined Officer Martinez.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student with this prestigious award.
Among this year’s top recipients are Antwan Collier and Jeremiah Schufelt, honored for their outstanding contributions and steadfast commitment to the Rochester community. Their work serves as a powerful example of the spirit of service and leadership that the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award was created to celebrate.

10/13/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Honors Raquel Singletary :

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation was established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez to honor his legacy of service and compassion. A dedicated member of the Rochester Police Department, Officer Martinez served for 14 years as a mentor, advocate, and protector—especially for the city’s youth. His unwavering commitment to his community left a profound and lasting impact, one that continues through the work of the Foundation today.
Each year, the Foundation recognizes students who embody the values and spirit of service that Officer Martinez exemplified throughout his life. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its mission by creating the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, designed to honor individuals in the Rochester community who reflect the strength of character, integrity, and selfless service that Officer Martinez represented.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student.
Among the top recipients of this year’s Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award is Raquel Singletary, whose faith-driven dedication to serving others—particularly the elderly—has touched the hearts of many.
Raquel's work stands out not only for its impact but also for its deeply personal acts of service. One story in particular highlights the spirit she brings to the community:
“I met Raquel in 2021, during a time when my 90-year-old mother urgently needed a COVID-19 vaccination,” said a member of the Foundation. “We had called many places but were unable to secure an appointment. Then, I was connected with Raquel. Through her determination and kindness, she made sure my mom received her life-saving shot. I will never forget that act of compassion—it was a true reflection of what community care looks like.”
Raquel’s unwavering commitment to others, her love for the community, and her humble strength make her a shining example of the values that Officer Martinez stood for.
We are truly honored to recognize Raquel Singletary as one of this year’s award recipients. Her journey inspires us all to serve with compassion, lead with integrity, and never underestimate the power of one person to make a difference.

May God continue to bless her in all her goals and endeavors.

10/11/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Otto Harnischfeger:
The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation was established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez to honor his legacy of service, compassion, and dedication to the Rochester community. A committed member of the Rochester Police Department, Officer Martinez served for 14 years as a mentor, advocate, and protector—especially for the city’s youth. His unwavering commitment to others left a lasting impact, one that continues through the Foundation’s ongoing work.
Each year, the Foundation recognizes students who embody the values and spirit of service that Officer Martinez exemplified throughout his life. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its mission by creating the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award, an honor designed to recognize individuals in the Rochester community who reflect the strength of character, integrity, and selfless service that defined Officer Martinez.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student with this prestigious award.
Among this year’s top recipients is Otto Harnischfeger, a retired investigator with the Rochester Police Department and the current Executive Director of the Pirate Toy Fund—an organization that delivers toys to children year-round, one toy at a time. Otto’s commitment to bringing joy and comfort to children is truly inspiring. His dedication to the community and to making a difference in the lives of young people is unwavering and perfectly reflects the spirit of the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award.

Congratulations Otto Harnischfeger !!

10/10/2025

The Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation Honors Gary Mervis and Wendy Bleier-Mervis
Established in 2020 by the nieces and sister of Officer Edwin Martinez, the Officer Edwin Martinez Foundation honors his legacy of service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the Rochester community. A devoted member of the Rochester Police Department, Officer Martinez served for 14 years as a mentor, advocate, and protector—particularly for the city’s youth. His commitment left a profound and lasting impact that continues to inspire and guide the Foundation’s mission today.
Each year, the Foundation recognizes students who embody the values and spirit of service that Officer Martinez exemplified throughout his life. In 2024, the Foundation expanded its reach by creating the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award to honor individuals in the Rochester community who demonstrate strength of character, integrity, and selfless service—qualities that defined Officer Martinez.
In 2025, the Foundation proudly recognized 13 outstanding community members and one exceptional college student with this prestigious award.
Among this year’s top recipients are Gary Mervis, Founder, and Wendy Bleier-Mervis, CEO of Camp Good Days and Special Times. They were honored with the Officer Edwin Martinez Appreciation Award for their enduring commitment to our community and their mission to support children and families impacted by cancer. Their work continues to reflect the compassion and service-driven values that Officer Martinez stood for.

Congratulations Gary and Wendy Bleier-Mervis

The Officer Edwin Martinez Awards

11/05/2025

10/24/2025

10/22/2025

10/21/2025

10/17/2025

10/16/2025

10/15/2025

10/14/2025

10/13/2025

10/11/2025

10/10/2025

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