Westchester Nonprofit Group Honors Neighbors Link Leader With 'Distinguished Service Award'

ELMSFORD, NY — A Westchester County leader who has worked to lift up those in need has been honored by her peers in a big way,

Nonprofit Westchester has named Carola Otero Bracco, executive director of Neighbors Link, as this year’s recipient of its Distinguished Service Award. The award will be presented at the organization’s annual Keep Westchester Thriving celebration on Dec. 3, 2026.

According to the organization, the annual event is a countywide gathering for the nonprofit sector that brings together community leaders, advocates and supporters. The group said last year’s celebration drew more than 350 people.

Bracco leads Neighbors Link, an organization focused on supporting immigrant families through education, legal services and economic development. According to the release, she is a first-generation American born to Bolivian immigrant parents and has a personal connection to the immigrant experience.

Nonprofit Westchester said that under Bracco’s leadership, Neighbors Link has grown to include three community centers, the largest immigration legal practice in the mid-Hudson Valley, and programs serving immigrants across 150 towns in 28 New York counties. Bracco previously worked in financial management with General Electric Corporation, Ford Motor Company and Time Warner, and holds an MBA from Duke University.

“Carola Bracco exemplifies the absolute best of Westchester’s nonprofit sector. Her ingenuity, brilliance, and relentless resolve strengthen our entire community every single day,” Jan Fisher, executive director of Nonprofit Westchester, said announcing the award. “At a time when community-driven leadership is more critical than ever, Carola’s work at Neighbors Link serves as a masterclass in how to build bridges, foster deep integration, and create sustainable, positive change. We are thrilled to honor her extraordinary contributions to our county.”

Bracco said she was honored to be among those recognized by Nonprofit Westchester. “This award is especially meaningful because it shines a light on the resilience, dignity and contributions of immigrant families who continue to enrich our community despite facing fear and uncertainty,” Bracco said. “This recognition also reflects the work of countless colleagues, partners, volunteers, donors, and community members who share the Neighbors Link vision that strong communities are built when everyone has the opportunity to be included.”

Ron Abad, NPW board president, also praised Bracco in the announcement.

“The NPW Board of Directors is incredibly proud to present her with the Distinguished Service Award,” Abad said. “She embodies the very spirit of the Keep Westchester Thriving mission—ensuring that every single member of our community has the opportunity, resources, and support to truly thrive.”

According to Nonprofit Westchester, the Dec. 3 event will also serve as a gathering to recognize the county’s nonprofit workforce. The organization said information on tickets and sponsorships is available through its event page.