Adults honored for safeguarding kids

HURON TWP. — These adults truly want what's best for the younger generation. The Aiding Children's Excellence Awards recognized many locals for their continued kindhearted contributions toward area youth. A reception attended by more than 150 people took place Wednesday at Sawmill Creek Resort. Often shortened to the "ACE Awards," Erie County children services and its parent organization, Erie County Job and Family Services, put on this event each year. "The Aiding Children's Excellence Awards is a way to recognize individuals who go above and beyond for the children of Erie County," said AJ Lill, Erie County Job and Family Services' deputy director of social programs. "It's a great opportunity to acknowledge those volunteers, community members, law enforcement, foster parents, attorneys, educators, court personnel, businesses and public/private nonprofit agencies who make a difference each and every day," Lill added. "It's extremely important to recognize the outstanding work that is being done in our community so that the nominees know how valued, impactful and meaningful they are to our community." Officials sought nominations throughout April, coinciding with Child Abuse Prevention Month. The awards also act as a method for officials to publicly raise awareness about child abuse. The ceremony occurred in May since its Foster Appreciation Month. "And, as an agency, we implement many strategies throughout these months to raise awareness and show our sincere appreciation," Lill said. "One of these strategies is (these awards)." Lill and others arranged for Shawn Crable, a former player in the National Football League, to serve as the keynote speaker. "Shawn had a powerful and inspirational message," Lill said. "The evening underscored how fortunate we are in Erie County to have so many wonderful people to assist in addressing the issue of child abuse and neglect. It was an honor to share the evening with so many that truly inspire to make a difference." 2023 Aiding Children's Excellence Awards winners In total, officials distributed seven awards based on receiving 42 nominees. Additionally, 23 foster parents received recognition. Law Enforcement Officer of the Year — Sandusky police Detective Carissa Cruz • Nominees: Brian Clayman, Greg Hall, James Greenham, Keith Bodi, Martin Curran Court Personnel/Attorney of the Year — Erie County Juvenile Court Judge Robert DeLamatre • Nominees: Betty Burley, Chris Graham, Greg McGory, Kate Conley, Kelli Jellinger Foster Parents of the Year — Bradley and Carlene Bibb • Nominees: Greg and Abby Hall, Renni Funni, Brad and Shannon Wilson, Steve and Pauline Harvey Business/Group of the Year — New Life Church • Nominees: Andrea Gibson of Giving Birthdays, Riley's Angels, Tim Perry of Pizza House East, Trinity United Methodist Church Educator of the Year — Holly Charville • Nominees: Alexa Rickenbaugh, Sandusky Central Catholic School Medical Personnel of the Year — Peds on Wheels • Nominees: Jamie Ard, Mandy Johnson Individual of the Year — Tim Overly • Nominees: Abby Hall, Renee Leber of Family Health Services, Helen Smith, Melissa Fowler, OHgo, Richard "Chico" Alexander, Ron Snyder, Sonya Adcock, Lisa and Duane of Voices 4 Victims