The New York Botanical Garden is recognizing several local women who’ve made a difference in their community.  

Four Bronx women were honored - an environmentalist, an anti-gun violence advocate, a champion for those with special needs, and an industry trailblazer.  

Maggie Greenfield was commemorated for her dedication to restoring the Bronx River, helping turn it from what she says was the butt of jokes to a natural location for people to enjoy.  

Tenant leader Tanya Pedler was honored for her work advocating for NYCHA families with loved ones with special needs.  

Linda Kemp, founder of Bringing The Peace, was celebrated for her work fighting to reduce gun violence on Bronx streets. Kemp was instrumental in helping pass legislation against ghost guns that was proposed by Rep. Ritchie Torres.  

BronxWorks executive director Eileen Torres was honored for her work improving the economic and social well-being of her fellow community members. She says her mother was pivotal in paving the way for her to help out her neighbors.  

“My mother sacrificed quite a lot for my sister and I mean, to make sure we got a good education,” said Eileen Torres. “[She] was a strong encourager for me to follow my dreams.” 

This is the 10th annual celebration of local Bronx women at the New York Botanical Garden to celebrate Women’s History Month.