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The first recipient was Karen Kight of Abilities Unlimited of Hot Springs. Her organization serves local adults to train them to live self-sufficient lives through job training, and learning to be less dependent on others. They are going to use the funds to help purchase a new van to help commute people to and from their workplace and or training
The next recipient was Ann Hudson of Special Olympics of Arkansas. We all know about the Special Olympics each May in Searcy and how much fun so many have there, working with the athletes. What we didn't know until Tuesday night was that this organization also provides health screening, nutrition and hygiene information and training on how to live independently. Ann will use these funds to help all athletes that want to compete be able to come to Searcy.
Lynn Reaves of The Caring Place will use their funding to help people who have loved ones who can not afford the services they offer, and to help absorb some of the transportation costs. The Caring Olace does amazing work caring for Alzheimer patients. One of their main goals is to keep them out of nursing homes for as long as possible and in their homes. Her organization also helps family caregivers get a break from the round the clock care that is needed For the family members stricken with this disease. A support group for the families of these patients is provided as well.
Nancy Baxter of First Step of Arkansas received their funding and is going to apply it toward buying new therapy equipment and also help out in the transportation needs of her organization. First step is aptly named because it is the first step in a child's education and the first step in an adults path to independent living. It started as a local, grass roots organization, and has grown to over 1000 volunteers and part time employees.
Last, but certainly not least, was Noreen Westerbeck for the Camp for the Blind. Another organization with strong ties to Council 10208 through our Blind Bowling event we host each year.This organization helps blind children's dreams come true by letting them participate in horseback riding, bowling, and a multitude of water sports at their summer camps. The funds will be used to pay for camp participation, as well as the bowling each year.
To cap off a truly amazing evening, a wonderful meal was provided by Chef Johanna of ribs, mixed vegetables, and cheese cake. It really was an evening to celebrate the passion for service of not only our Council, but of all the people of Hot Springs Village.