Bay Shore resident Brianne Wakefield was recognized by Legislator Steven J. Flotteron as Suffolk County 2023 Woman of Distinction Award nominee for the 11th Legislative District.
Ms. Wakefield is a very active member of the community and Way Maker Church as their worship leader. She is also a Sunday school teacher, teaching children of all ages. She has organized the church’s “Back to School” fundraiser for the community as well as recognizing local Veterans for their outstanding service to others. In addition, she hosts bible studies in her home every Monday for as many as 15 children at a time.
In addition to homeschooling her own children, Ms. Wakefield is the founder of Seeds of Faith co-op in Patchogue, a group that helps to socialize home schooled children while working with other parents to teach a faith-based framework. She also is the founder of the Bay Shore Babysitter group, with more than a thousand members, helping mothers find local babysitters for their children. Brianne and her husband give one-on-one marriage counseling through the church on a weekly basis. Ms. Wakefield founded the community-based group, “Takes a Village”, started during Covid to aid local businesses struggling due to the pandemic. She started the first outdoor food pantry for the community, providing donated items from neighbors, friends and contacts from her Moms Group, which is located on her property (pictured above), where those in need can help themselves.
In addition, she has hosted exchange students from all over the world including Germany, China, Colombia, and Brazil, building lasting relationships with young girls who are able to attend St. Johns High School. Currently, she is in the process of certification for New York State Foster Care.