A group of civic-minded citizens from across the state and their families were welcomed by first lady Susan and Gov. Asa Hutchinson to a private pre-awards reception June 12 at the Governor's Mansion. Later in the evening, the group would be honored at the 38th annual Community Service Awards in the mansion's Grand Hall. Volunteer work by the honorees included helping foster children, raising money for Arkansas Children's Hospital and working at a community health clinic.
Sherry Middleton, director of the state Department of Human Services Division of Community Service and Nonprofit Support, which helps sponsor the awards, said, "It is exciting to honor people who don't expect it."
Receiving individual community service awards were Jan Alman of Little Rock, Jessica Eldred of Bentonville, Faye Graham Everett of McGehee, Allen Farley of Russellville and Evelyn Reed and Renia White, both of Benton.
Shayla and Scott Copas were named Distinguished Citizens.
Other awards presented were the National Service AmeriCorps Award presented to Jessica Green of White Hall and the Youth Humanitarian Award presented to Hannah Colford of Maumelle. The Small Corporate Humanitarian Award was given to Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, and Comcast of Arkansas received the Large Corporate Humanitarian Award.
The awards are also sponsored by KARK-TV, Channel 4, the governor's office and Duncan Law Firm. Guests were welcomed to the dinner and awards ceremony by Dave Woodman. Bob Clausen and Ashley Ketz served as co-hosts.
High Profile on 06/21/2015