Toni Smith

A longtime activist, who until recently served on the York City Council, will be honored this weekend for her work on behalf of children.

The public is invited to a celebration of appreciation for Toni Smith, who's never shied away from community service, said Dr. Deborah McMillan, who is organizing the event through Emmanuel Church of God in Christ.

From spaghetti-dinner fundraisers to helping the Boy Scouts, Smith's list of achievements is "just endless," McMillan said.

"We just thought, with her not being on council anymore, we would love to just say 'thank you' for all that she's done," McMillan said.

Smith, 78, served 16 years on the council before losing her bid for a fifth term last fall. An Italian-born immigrant, Smith has served in an extensive range of community-service capacities.

But it is her work on behalf of children that her admirers intend to recognize.

Saturday: The event, a fundraiser to benefit the East Side Health Center's early childhood-reading program, will include a children's pageant and talent show. Smith will participate by reading a book aloud to the children, McMillan said.

The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Yorktowne Hotel, 49 E. Market St. Tickets, which include an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, cost $25 for adults and $12 for children. Anyone is welcome to attend.

To RSVP, contact McMillan at (717) 372-8178.

-- Erin James may also be reached at ejames@yorkdispatch.com.