Winners of the 2017 NSCC Making a Difference Awards included: (L to R) Marisa Bergman and Rich Menzel from North Star BlueScope Steel (business), Katie Cramer from Sarah’s Friends (organization), and Denise McColley (individual).
Archbold, Ohio – The Northwest State Community College Foundation recently hosted its annual Green Carpet Event, “Paint the Town,” with tremendous success. The event raised just over $60,200, which will benefit student scholarships. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2017 Making a Difference Awards, which were created by the NSCC Foundation as a way to recognize and celebrate an individual, business and organization in the six-county area committed to improving their communities. This year’s recipients were The Honorable Denise McColley, North Star BlueScope Steel and Sarah’s Friends.
“The Green Carpet Event is vital for Northwest State and the region, as it celebrates the importance of volunteerism and generosity in each of our communities, and also helps to raise needed funds for student scholarships.” said Robbin Wilcox, foundation director of development at NSCC. “These scholarships help open doors for deserving students to receive a quality education, preparing them for great career opportunities.”
A special one-hour recap of the NSCC Green Carpet Event (2017 Making a Difference Awards) will be available on TV26, and is also available on the Northwest State YouTube channel (youtube.com/user/NorthwestStateCC).
ABOUT THE MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Denise McColley has positively impacted individuals and families for well over 30 years in a variety of capacities. As Judge of the Henry County Family Court since 2005, and magistrate and private legal practice prior to that appointment, Denise has worked with thousands of individuals to assist in successful dispute resolution. Her mediation processes are innovative: Family Courts throughout the state of Ohio regularly implement her mediation processes. Denise also tirelessly gives her time and efforts to a variety of community organizations. As a founding member and past chair of Symphony of Trees children’s services fundraiser in Napoleon, the Symphony has raised over $800,000 in the past 16 years in support of various youth services organizations in Henry County.
North Star BlueScope Steel was established in 1995 in Delta, OH. Their employees have achieved remarkable success, including going over three years without a lost-time injury, and winning the prestigious Governor’s Excellence Award for Workers Compensation and Safety. North Star BlueScope Steel is also ranked the #1 supplier consistently in independent surveys conducted by Jacobsen and Associates, including a #1 ranking in delivery performance, quality, customer service and overall satisfaction within their industry. They work closely with the Delta (and Fulton County) community to be a good neighbor and employer, supporting many organizations and events. The company also constructed a 7.8 acre wetlands on-site, regularly inviting students to participate in various conservation-focused educational and hands-on activities.
Sarah’s Friends in Bryan is a safe haven for victims of crimes such as domestic violence, child abuse, physical abuse and more. For over 25 years, Sarah’s Friends has empowered victims to help them prevail over the trauma of their victimization, so they can heal physically, emotionally, and spiritually. On average, at one time, Sarah’s Friends assists 35 families simultaneously. All services are free and confidential. Short-term financial assistance is available for transitional housing, and they provide assistance in many other valuable areas, including food and gas vouchers, utility assistance, prescription assistance, mental health assessments, transportation for appointments, and much more. Sarah’s Friends also provides public education programs for civic organizations and industries throughout Williams County.
