BY ADJANI SHAH
Community Involvement: Yolanda Delacruz Gallagher is the 25th District Leader in Queens. She has also been a board member on the Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association for over 15 years and a member of the Holy Family Parish Church. As an active community member, Gallagher tackles issues such as graffiti, broken street lights, storm damage and helps schools by giving students incentives to achieve their academic best.
Background: Gallagher is originally from the Philippines. She came to New York in 1991. She graduated from DeSales University with an MBA in business administration and used to work as a banker. She’s been married to James Gallagher for 18 years. They are both active members in the Fresh Meadows community.
Inspiration: Gallagher said her inspiration is her husband. He introduced her to community involvement. They both roam the community to see what could be fixed or improved. “It comes from the heart,” she said. “It comes from loving the community.”
Biggest Challenge: Gallagher said her biggest challenge is trying to please everyone and reaching goals without affecting the politics of the situation.
