DAWN HOOPES

Dawn Hoopes receives this award because of her tireless efforts and commitment to the students and families she serves as an Intermediate Unit social worker, as well as her devotion to the Family Friends and Kids In Care programs.

She consistently gives of her time, energy, and resources to support the volunteers, families, and mentees who participate in these programs. Dawn takes the time to develop personal relationships with each volunteer, family, and mentee, and she is invested not only in the success of the programs, but in achieving the best possible outcome for each individual involved. This position is not a Monday through Friday, 8-5 job. Dawn is 'on-call' whenever a need arises.

The Kids In Care program is truly unique in terms of the population it serves - a population of children and teens who are often shunned or neglected by society at large and even by their own families, and who would be considered too intense for the average volunteer program to manage. However, with the high level of training provided, along with Dawn's expertise and guidance, these young people are able to experience something they may never have had before - a healthy, positive relationship with a caring adult. They learn what it feels like to be able to rely upon someone who is not being paid by an agency.

There is a vast need for Family Friends and Kids In Care programs, but realistically, there are very few “Dawns” who can and would have the skills, time, and devotion necessary to make it work. Dawn does not seek praise or recognition for her efforts, but she deserves to be honored and thanked for what she does each day. We cannot know how many lives have been greatly improved, and even saved, by these programs, but we do know that many lives have been enriched and life changed forever for the better because of Dawn Hoopes.