Adults awarded in caring for kids

HURON TWP. — So many local adults always look out for kids. And now others are paying attention to them, highlighting an elite handful for their heroic efforts while placing a spotlight on their constant generosity and kind gestures. The Aiding Children's Excellence Awards recognized many locals for their continued kindhearted contributions toward area youth. A reception attended by more than 200 people took place Wednesday at Sawmill Creek Resort in the Huron area. 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, the agency's assistant director. He also directly supervises children services efforts. "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)." 2024 Aiding Children's Excellence Awards winners In total, officials distributed eight awards based on receiving nearly 60 nominees. Additionally, 27 foster parents received recognition. May marks Foster Care Awareness Month. Law Enforcement Officer of the Year — Brian Clayman, Huron police detective • Nominees: Danny Orzech; Daniel Vladiff; Erie County's K-9 unit consisting of Josh Miller, Justin Majoy and Kyle Bellamy; Alexis Harvey; Tim Alexander; Eric Costante; Stephanie McDermott Mental/Behavioral Health Personnel of the Year — Joseph Borgelt, director of The LCADA Way; LCADA is short for Leadership, Compassion, Awareness, Dedication and Advocacy. • Nominees: Peds on Wheels; Stephen Schuldt; Tony Schalk; Carrie Kennedy; Rob Heidl Business/Group of the Year — The Chapel Kids Group with Cecily Musser • Nominees: Faith Church with Tom Groot and team; Motel 6 with Laura Bolton; New Life Church with Family Advocate Ministry Families; Sandusky Kiwanis Club; John Risner Court Personnel/Attorney of the Year — Erie County magistrate Greg McGory • Nominees: Kate Conley; Lisa Nimrichter; Dawn Root; Kelli Jellinger; Paulette Lilly Foster Parents of the Year — Ben and Vonda Patrick • Nominees: Larry and Emily Robinson; Allen Jackson Group Home; Aaron Bacon and Dennis Ranch; Renni Funni; Greg and Abby Hall Educator of the Year — Kathy Hall, Margaretta Schools psychologist • Nominees: Tara Toft and Virginia Grathwol; Morgan Brutcher; Vera Smith; Valerie Thomas; Liz Brown; Sukie Finneran; Sara Bernard; Alexa Rickenbaugh; Cindy Riley On a related note, Isiah Hall served as the event's keynote speaker. He's a former foster child of Kathy, who adopted him as his son. Social Service Agency/Agency Individual of the Year — Patty James, an advocate with Erie County CASA; CASA is short for Court Appointed Special Advocate. • Nominees: Joe Jenkins, Andrea Caudill, Huron Salvation Army, Dawn Scherma, Andrea Gibson, Lisa Lauro, Margaret Black, Michele Bailey, Tory Yarbro, Tiffanee Beard Community Member of the Year — Tony Legando, a local author and motivational speaker • Nominees: Jim Cowell and Mark Fogg; Abby Hall; Mary David