In every community, there are unsung heroes — those who, without expectation or reward, pour their heart into making the world a little better. In Wilton Manors, that hero is Cathy Cerneglia.

A community ally, a mentor, a leader, and above all, a giver — Cerneglia never stops showing up for those around her. Most recently, she took on the monumental task of feeding over 95 sailors and community leaders at the Fleet Week celebration in Hagen Park. It wasn’t just an event; it was a heartfelt tribute to the men and women of our military, complete with an inspiring speech from Mayor Scott Newton and a soul-stirring rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner by Ry Rivers. Behind the scenes, Cerneglia had spent months preparing — coordinating food donations from across the city and cooking tirelessly to make it all happen. What unfolded was a powerful reminder of what can happen when a diverse community unites with a common purpose. Together, they pulled off something unforgettable.

But for Cerneglia, that event was just one of many ways she gives back.

All year long, Cerneglia leads a food pantry project that now serves over 50 families a week in Wilton Manors. It’s more than just food — it’s hope, stability, and kindness delivered consistently. She ensures that children are fed, families are supported, and no one is left behind. Her compassion doesn’t stop at food; it extends to the youth of the community who need a second chance. Some have found refuge under Cerneglia’s own roof — kids in trouble, lost, or at a crossroads. She’s guided them through high school, helped them find jobs or colleges, and sometimes, even given them a spot at her legendary Over Easy Café, where community connection is served alongside the city’s best breakfast.

Over Easy Café, located at 318 East Oakland Park Blvd, isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a gathering place, a safe space, and a cornerstone of the city’s soul. And now, Cerneglia and her husband, Mark, have expanded their mission with the opening of Fat Freddy’s at 221 West Prospect Road in Oakland Park. A renovated gem, this sub shop is dishing out everything from mouth-watering Philly cheesesteaks to deli classics, and it’s quickly becoming another local favorite. Open Monday through Friday from 10 to 3, it’s another example of Cerneglia’s magic — where passion, food, and purpose meet.

But Cerneglia doesn’t do this alone. She’s backed by a team that shares her heart: Mark, their son Michael, and their extended family of helpers — Kevin, Astrid, Terry, Sam, and Abby. Each one plays a vital role in her mission. Together, they are a force for good, a beacon of what it means to lead with love.

In today’s world, community allies like Cerneglia are more important than ever. As members of the LGBTQ community and beyond, it’s crucial we lift those who lift us. The more success Cerneglia and her family find, the more they pour right back into the people around them.

So here’s to Cathy Cerneglia — an icon of compassion, resilience, and unwavering service. Her story isn’t just inspirational. It’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that one person, with a big enough heart and a strong enough will, truly can change the world — one meal, one child, and one act of kindness at a time.

Bobby Blair is a LGBTQ media pioneer and leader known for his philanthropic work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. A Florida native, he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his longtime partner, Brian Neal. Blair was inducted into the GLBT Hall of Fame in 2015.