In Union County, the spotlight shines on two groups demonstrating exceptional collaboration and service, honored with the 2024 Caught in the Act Team Award for their above-and-beyond contributions to the community. Acknowledging teams that deliver tangible impacts through collective effort, the accolade was presented to the Mental Health Awareness Fundraiser Team and the Child Health Support Team - each lauded for transcending their job descriptions in the aid of local residents, as reported by Union County's official website.
The Mental Health Awareness Fundraiser Team is comprised of Justin Lesperance, Becky Hatley, Casey Deese, Mary Chickoree, and Susie Calkins, who successfully orchestrated a fundraiser garnering nearly $1,000 to back the Behavioral Health Collaborative, which focuses on the social and mental well-being of Union County's students, the organization according to the same report was led by School Resource Officer Lesperance initiative of the concept and marketing of a disc golf event increasing the community's awareness on suicide and mental health resources this would have floundered without Business Operations and Building Code Enforcement's resolution in handling the intricacies of registration fees and fund management.
The Child Health Support Team, made up of Dorothy Tran, Kara Keith, Jackie Deakin, Cindy Spratt, and Alexis Sabul, acted with deep compassion to meet the urgent needs of a family reeling from a severe vehicular mishap, as detailed by Union County's news release. Dr. Tran, recognizing the immediate needs for medical supplies and sustenance, spearheaded an effort to provide not only professional support but personal attention, with team members purchasing supplies during personal time and rearranging schedules for expedited home visits to deliver essential items.
County Manager Brian Matthews extolled the virtues of these employees, stating to Union County, “The actions of these employees reflect their unwavering dedication to Union County and its residents. Their teamwork and commitment to service make a real difference in the lives of those they help,” this sentiment captures the essence of what the Caught in the Act program strives to highlight every year, celebrating those within the county's workforce who excel in teamwork, demonstrate nimble problem-solving abilities, and commit to a higher standard of service amongst their peers.
