Evening of Hope Honorees – Elaine Meyerson, Gina Plotino, Valerie Vainieri Huttle & Loretta Weinberg
Elaine Meyerson, Gina Plotino, Valerie Vainieri Huttle and Loretta Weinberg were pioneers in the field of domestic violence—developing services and crafting legislation to help ensure the safety of survivors and to support them in rebuilding their lives.
Elaine and Gina were a mighty duo. They often collaborated to develop and deliver an array of essential services for domestic violence survivors, and their tireless advocacy led to systemic changes, not just in Bergen County but across the state.
Throughout their decades-long careers in public service, Valerie and Loretta sponsored and championed laws and policies aimed at redefining and preventing domestic violence and providing critical protections for survivors.
The word “legacy” often refers to those whose impact will be felt for generations to come. The 2026 Legacy of Service Award honors the indelible mark each of these women has made on the 50-year evolution of Center for Hope & Safety—and on the countless individuals and families whose lives have been changed by their work.
Elaine Meyerson
Without Elaine Meyerson’s leadership, dedication and vision, Center for Hope & Safety would not be the organization it is today. As Executive Director of Shelter Our Sisters/CHS from 1986 to 2015, Elaine was instrumental in empowering survivors of domestic violence and their loved ones to rebuild their lives. She grew the agency from a small grassroots organization to an integral and well-respected county-wide program offering a continuum of services—from a 24/7 hotline, shelter and transitional housing to children’s creative arts therapies, outreach services and community education benefiting Bergen County residents…READ ELAINE’S FULL BIO
Gina Plotino
“The fire in her belly” is how Gina Plotino describes ending violence as a part of family life. Gina first learned about the impact of domestic abuse working as a VISTA volunteer for 9 to 5, the National Association of Working Women in Boston. Returning to New Jersey in 1980, she was named Director of the Bergen County agency Alternatives to Domestic Violence (ADV)…READ GINA’S FULL BIO
Valerie Vainieri Huttle
Valerie Vainieri Huttle has devoted her career to strengthening communities, expanding access to the arts, and advancing policies that improve the lives of New Jersey’s families. Valerie served eight terms as a member of the New Jersey State Assembly, representing the 37th Legislative District from 2006 to 2022. During her tenure, she rose to the role of Deputy Speaker and chaired the Human Services Committee, where she championed legislation supporting human services, senior care, women’s equity, environmental stewardship, and access to cultural and educational opportunities…READ VALERIE’S FULL BIO
Loretta Weinberg
Loretta Weinberg has dedicated her life to making the world a better place. From 2005 to 2022, following 14 years in New Jersey’s General Assembly, Loretta served in the State Senate representing the 37th Legislative District. During her time in the legislature, she was the Senate Majority Leader and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. She also served as Vice-Chair of the Legislative Oversight Committee and as a member of the Joint Budget Oversight and the Joint Committee on Economic Justice and Equal Employment Opportunity Committee…READ LORETTA’S FULL BIO