Washington County has recently wrapped up its 21st annual Public Health Recognition Awards, a fete that brought over 100 guests together to honor local public health heroes. The event, which aligns with National Public Health Week, spotlighted individuals and organizations in the community making strides in promoting well-being throughout the county, according to the City's news release.

Among the winners, announced last Friday, was Lucia Benavides from Adelante Mujeres Promotora de Salud, who received the Public Health Ambassador Award. Cited for her passion for public health, which ranges from nutrition education to the organization of mobile clinics, Benavides was recognized for her ongoing efforts that left a lasting impact in the county.

The Beaverton Resource Center was acknowledged with the Partner in Public Health Award, serving over 1,500 people attending their health events last year. They provided a slew of services, including eye exams and cancer screenings, demonstrating how a business can promote public health both internally and in the wider community.

The Emerging Public Health Leader Award was snatched by the Reproductive Justice Action Team at Pacific University, composed of proactive students, staff, and faculty. As active promoters of reproductive justice and health equity, this collective has been engaged in organizing community events to raise awareness about these nuanced issues. Meanwhile, Tessa Robinson, RN DNP was lauded with the Washington County Employee Award, not only for her advocacy and inclusive care as a community health nurse but for her volunteer work on the Portland TGA HIV Services Planning Council.

The award ceremony also served as an educational opportunity, with a focus on the constant behind-the-scenes work in public health. “Through public health modernization, we’re focusing on building authentic relationships with community partners to better meet the needs of local communities,” Community Partnerships Coordinator Genevieve Ellis, MPH, told the audience. Such events highlight the contributions of many, while encouraging collaborative efforts in addressing priority health issues. A crucial part of this endeavor is the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), which leverages public feedback for shaping collaborations and addressing public health concerns.