County Child, Family Welfare Board names outstanding child, parents

Cherokee County Child & Family Welfare Board members recognized those who’ve gone above and beyond in their support of this area’s abused and neglected children.

Board members handed out several awards to the well-deserving during the annual CCCFWB banquet, held Monday, April 22, at the First United Methodist Church-Jacksonville.

“The support and love of our community really couldn’t be any better,” longtime board member Shirley Reese said. “We have so many people who step up and help us help those children who might otherwise get lost in the shuffle. We absolutely couldn’t do half as much as we’re able to, without all our volunteers, supporters and families and we are truly grateful to have them.”

Outstanding Youth of the Year was presented to Whitehouse teen Armando Gonzalez, who first entered foster care in 2012, at the age of 12.

“The daunting conditions of his removal from his mother have not slowed his determination for success,” CPS caseworker Katie Davis said in a written statement. “He continues to set great goals for himself. This young man has inspired me. I am blessed to be a part of his journey – watching him grow into the successful young man that he is destined to be even at a young age.”

Gonzalez is graduating a straight A student, works at Whataburger on the weekends and has applied to the University of Texas to pursue a degree in kinesiology, in hopes of becoming a coach.

Outstanding Community Resource award went to the Women with Purpose group, which presented the Board with a $1,250 donation raised from the group’s recent luncheon honoring local women and their volunteerism.

“It is with great appreciation that the CCCFS Board recognizes and honors the WWP as they support our work with children,” board member Barbara Hugghins said.

Volunteer of the Year went to Peggy Lent of Jacksonville.

“Peggy has served faithfully on the Board for several years,” Hugghins said. “Her forte is party planning, catering events for the Board and coordinating and organizing activities, including the spring banquet and the children’s Christmas party.

“Her skills in organizing, preparing, serving and cleaning up events make parties and events look easy.”

Outstanding Foster Parents of the Year were Cody and Rebecca Craig of Athens.

Cristy Smith was named Texas Council of Child Welfare Board-Region 4’s Outstanding CPS Leader. Smith has been with the Cherokee County Child Protective Services office for five years.

CCFWB Board Chair Bill Avera also recognized several groups that have shown unwaivering support of the county’s Rainbow Room, including the Home Demonstration Club of Ponta TEEA and the Ladies Sewing Ministry from Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler.

Board members also recognized banquet attendees Cherokee County Court at Law Judge Janice Stone, Jacksonville Mayor Dick Stone, Child Welfare Board Region 4 Chair Barbara Long and several CASA volunteers for their staunch support of the Board’s various programs.

Certificates of appreciation for service to the Board were presented to Gay Lynn Brines and Mary Turney.