Senator Chan Proud To Present Commendation Award To Rev. Edward L. Lai

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: AUGUST 7, 2025

Brooklyn, NY—Senator Chan, joined by his office interns, presented a commendation award to Rev. Edward L. Lai.

The award ceremony took place at the Salvation Army Brooklyn Corps Center. During the commendation award ceremony, the Senator started the ceremony in Cantonese, discussing the award's significance. The interns continued the senator's speech in Mandarin, Cantonese, Spanish, and English, discussing the accomplishments of Reverend Lai. 

It is with pleasure that I present the NYS Senate Commendation Award to Ed Lai on behalf of the NYS Senate. Not often do we find community leaders like Ed, who are at the forefront of representing South Brooklyn with his hands-on application for the betterment of the community, helping countless people, whether it's the elderly in need or our seniors looking to enjoy their retirement. The area of Senate District 17 needs more people like Ed Lai.

—Said Senator Chan

The New York State Senate Commendation Award is a prestigious honor for the New York State Senator to recognize individuals who have contributed outstanding services in their communities. This award acknowledges humanitarian effectors and civic engagement, particularly in non-profit work done for the betterment of the community. 

From the beginning, Rev. Edward L. Lai has served for more than 15 years in healthcare promotion and business development, becoming a nationally recognized healthcare executive. Furthermore, he is a passionate advocate for the fight against sexual and domestic violence. As one of the first male case managers for the New York Asian Women's Center (known now as Womankind), he was crucial in facilitating the organization's multi-unit shelter program, providing a home for numerous women needing housing assistance. Lai also pushed for nationwide events like Sexual Violence Awareness Day.  

Edward L. Lai spoke in his speech about his passion for helping his community, especially the survivors of domestic violence and healthcare. 
 

As an immigrant, I am deeply honored and grateful to receive this commendation from Senator Chan. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to serving the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) community by participating in various community service organizations such as the Salvation Army Senior Center and the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of New York. Through these roles, I have worked to promote elder care, cultural exchange, community development, and youth engagement.

Reverend Lai continued,

This honor is not just a personal recognition—it is an affirmation of my many years of community service and advocacy for the public good. I sincerely thank the Senate for its support and encouragement. This award will inspire me to continue serving the community with love and a sense of responsibility, to foster unity, build a harmonious society, care for those in need, and work together to create a better future. Thank you all for granting me this honor and encouragement 

Lai will continue to be seen as a positive influence one can aspire to be. 

For more information: 
CONTACT:
The Office of Senator Stephen T. Chan
Phone: (718) 333-0311
Email: Chan@nysenate.gov