Over 900 individuals gathered for the 30th annual event honoring those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the well-being of children in Genesee County. A collaboration between Voices for Children Advocacy Center (VCAC) and United Way of Genesee County, the event brought the community together in support of local children and the vital work of VCAC.
Since its inception in 1995, these awards have served as a beacon, recognizing individuals and organizations committed to improving the lives of children. This year, more than 150 nominees were celebrated, with 11 awards and eight scholarships presented to individuals, businesses, organizations and initiatives that contribute to making Genesee County a nurturing and supportive environment for children.
This annual event raises critical funds to support the VCAC’s mission of providing forensic interviews, therapy and counseling, victim advocacy, prevention and community education, and the CASA program, serving more than 5,000 children and families each year.
Among the Honorees:
- Caring Adult Award: Kelli Clark | Sponsored by FACT
- Exceptional Business Award: Pure Bliss Salon & Spa | Sponsored by Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Advisors
- Service Organization of the Year Award: Sleep in Heavenly
- Peace | Sponsored by McLaren Health Plan
- MDT Award: Sgt. Josh Walker, Ronisha Kibler | Sponsored by ELGA Credit Union
- Impact Award: Reta Stanley | Sponsored by The New Standard Academy
- Exceptional Business Award: Flint City Bucks | Sponsored by JP Morgan Chase Bank
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Gail Overstreet | Sponsored by McLaren Flint
- Caring Adult Award: Amy Anderson | Sponsored by Loeb Trust
- Impact Award: McKenna’s Beauty Bar | Sponsored by Hurley Children’s Hospital
- Outstanding Youth Award: Addisyn Goss | Sponsored by Genesee Health Systems
- People’s Choice Award: Chia Morgan | Sponsored by Phil W. & T. Ardele Shaltz Foundation
Deserving high school students were also recognized, receiving scholarships to support their continued education:
- Curbo Scholarships: Kacen Villareal (Flushing), Lauren Hennagir (Davison)
- Community Foundation’s Bob Emerson Scholarships: Addisyn Goss (Linden), Jacob Olszewski (Clio), Lena Youngs (Grand Blanc)
- Love Like Kres Scholarships: Blaise Gooding (Linden), Joseph Schilke (Flushing)
- Guy & Linda Moxam Scholarship: Addisyn Goss (Linden)
Congratulations to all award recipients and scholarship winners!
