White County Family Connection Awards the Helpers
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By Eric Tiongson
White County Family Connection held their annual dinner and awards ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at The Meadows at Mossy Crock. Three award winners were recognized alongside speeches from those positively impacted by Family Connection’s programs, a silent auction and a low country boil dinner.
The three awards given out were for agency of the year, agency staff member of the year and the Marion Caldwell volunteer of the year.
Winning agency of the year was the South Enotah Child Advocacy Center, an organization that provides services to children who have been victims of abuse.
Winning agency staff member of the year was Danielle Schofill, who is a part of the recreation programs. She was recognized for her extensive work with different recreation facilities, and for being in charge of the football, softball, baseball and basketball leagues, as well as being involved with Heroes League.
“Danielle is passionate about her job and loves getting to know all of the participants, their families, volunteer coaches,” White County Family Connection Director Nannette Baughman said.
Winning Marion Caldwell volunteer of the year was Corey Hyde, who is a part of the White County mentors program. Hyde has been a mentor since 2006, when he saw an ad in White County News asking for local mentors in the community. Since then, Hyde has taken numerous students under his wing.
“Despite an extensive career and a busy home life, Corey has returned to mentoring week after week, year after year,” Baughman said. “He is a true asset to our community and continues to guide our youth until they successfully walk across their own stage.”
The award got its name after Marion Caldwell, who served on the Family Connection Board for 25 years.
Before the awards were given out, Baughman gave a brief presentation on what Family Connection’s different programs accomplished within the past year.
The Family Advocacy Program served 31 at-risk families, with services such as case management, parenting education and life skills training. The Holiday Assistance Programs, While Christmas and Shop with a Cop provided Christmas gifts to hundreds of children and families in need. The Mentoring Program mentored nine students and also trained nine new volunteer mentors to help mentor even more students next year.
Read the story in White County News.