Rachel Kellner, owner of the historic Aigner Chocolates in Forest Hills, Queens, will be honored with the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award at the 29th Annual Evening of Fine Food, hosted by Queens Centers for Progress (QCP). This prestigious recognition celebrates Kellner’s unwavering commitment to community service, local empowerment, and social responsibility.
Celebrating a Legacy of Sweet Service
Founded in 1930 as Krause’s Candy Kitchen, Aigner Chocolates has become a cherished neighborhood gem. Since taking the reins, Kellner has infused the business with heart and purpose, building not only a successful chocolate shop but a true community hub.
What sets Kellner apart is her background as a licensed clinical social worker. With over a decade of experience in drug addiction services, she now channels her empathy and insight into a more joyful mission.
“My background is as a social worker, and I worked in drug addiction for 10 years. Now I help enable addiction—chocolate addiction, that is,” she jokes, blending passion with purpose.
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Aigner Chocolates: More Than a Sweet Shop
Under Kellner’s leadership, Aigner Chocolates has flourished beyond its role as a candy store. It now stands as a symbol of inclusivity, resilience, and community service. The shop is proudly female-led, with a diverse management team and certifications from WBENC, NYC, and NYS, signaling its commitment to ethical business practices and women’s empowerment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kellner led a remarkable effort, donating over $30,000 worth of chocolates to healthcare workers, nonprofits, and vulnerable individuals. This gesture wasn’t just a marketing move—it was a heartfelt act of compassion in a time of crisis.
Building Stronger Communities: Metro Village of Forest Hills
In response to challenges faced by local businesses during the pandemic—particularly after a burglary at Eisner Chocolates—Kellner co-founded Metro Village of Forest Hills. Initially an informal alliance, the group has evolved into a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit aimed at revitalizing Metropolitan Avenue through business collaboration, support, and joint marketing.
Metro Village underscores Kellner’s belief that community collaboration is key to long-term resilience. By uniting local entrepreneurs, she has helped foster a shared vision of growth, safety, and sustainability.
Living, Working, and Giving Back in Forest Hills
For Kellner, community service is deeply personal. As a resident, business owner, and parent in Forest Hills, she lives her values every day.
“I think because people that own small businesses tend to live, work, and enjoy themselves in the community,” she explains.
Her love for Queens drives her involvement in local causes, whether it’s supporting nearby schools, hospitals, or nonprofits. Her mission is simple: to create joy, connection, and opportunity—one piece of chocolate at a time.
Honoring the Spirit of Claire Shulman
Named after the legendary Queens Borough President, the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award recognizes individuals who embody leadership, compassion, and civic dedication. Shulman’s legacy of transformative service sets a high bar, one that Kellner meets through her actions and advocacy.
“I feel incredibly privileged to even be in the same sentence as Claire Shulman,” Kellner said. “I look forward to continuing to commit myself to all the ways I can give back to the Queens community.”
An Evening to Remember: The 29th Annual Evening of Fine Food
The 29th Annual Evening of Fine Food will take place on Tuesday, February 25, at Terrace on the Park in Corona. This beloved event gathers Queens’ best culinary talents while raising funds for Queens Centers for Progress, an organization serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Guests will enjoy tastings from top restaurants, engaging entertainment, and a strong sense of purpose. Rachel Kellner’s award presentation will be a highlight of the evening, recognizing not only her achievements but her vision for a better, more connected community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rachel Kellner?
Rachel Kellner is the owner of Aigner Chocolates and a licensed clinical social worker with a strong background in community service.
What is Aigner Chocolates known for?
Aigner Chocolates is a historic candy shop in Forest Hills, known for its premium handmade chocolates and deep community involvement.
What is the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award?
This award honors individuals who exemplify leadership, service, and dedication to the Queens community, named after the late Borough President Claire Shulman.
What is the Evening of Fine Food?
An annual event hosted by Queens Centers for Progress to raise funds for people with developmental disabilities. It features local cuisine, entertainment, and honors community leaders.
How did Rachel Kellner contribute during the COVID-19 pandemic?
She donated over $30,000 worth of chocolates to hospitals, frontline workers, and nonprofits to spread joy during difficult times.
What is Metro Village of Forest Hills?
A nonprofit co-founded by Kellner that supports and connects businesses along Metropolitan Avenue, promoting collaboration and revitalization.
How does Aigner Chocolates support diversity?
The business has a predominantly female-led management team and holds diversity-related certifications from WBENC, NYC, and NYS.
How can I attend the Evening of Fine Food?
Tickets can be purchased by visiting tinyurl.com/25QCPFineFood. The event takes place at Terrace on the Park on February 25.
Conclusion
Rachel Kellner’s upcoming recognition is more than just an award—it’s a testament to what’s possible when business and social responsibility come together. Through Aigner Chocolates and her broader initiatives, she has shown that local entrepreneurship can serve as a powerful tool for community building, healing, and empowerment.
As she accepts the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award, Kellner sets a shining example for future leaders in Queens and beyond—proving that sweetness, when paired with sincerity, can truly change lives.