County Executive Youth Awards Marks Milestone

GOSHEN – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus on Thursday, June 9 attended the Orange County Youth Bureau’s annual presentation of the County Executive’s Youth Awards at SUNY Orange in Middletown.

“The students who were recognized today are doing wonderful things in their communities and should be proud of their accomplishments,” Neuhaus said. “It is important to honor these young men and women and their families. Today’s ceremony was a terrific event for our Youth Bureau, which does a great job providing programs and services for children and families in Orange County.”

Doreen Hamel and Sheri Hentschel, Administrative Assistants in the County Executive’s Office, were recognized with the Youth Bureau’s Appreciation Award for playing a key role in helping to recognize awardees at the Orange County Executive’s Youth and Adult Awards programs. Hamel and Hentschel have created approximately 2,500 certificates of recognition for awardees over the years.

“Both Doreen and Sheri are selfless and hard-working and play an integral part in making my office go,” Neuhaus said. “This recognition is well-deserved, and I thank them both for everything that they contribute to County Government.”

Approximately 350 guests joined in the celebration of 91 honorees at the 40th annual event, which included students from Orange County, youth workers, school-based professionals, local businesses, and County employees. Many students honored with the Positive Change Leading to Success Award have overcome tremendous adversity to be successful and become role models for other youth. Several youths receiving the Spirit of Success Award have proven to be an inspiration despite significant physical and/or medical difficulties. Other youth who make significant contributions to their communities received the Outstanding Citizenship/Volunteerism/Leadership Award.

Adults, businesses, and community partners were also recognized for their many contributions that make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. The award nominations were submitted at the beginning of spring by Orange County schools, municipalities, and not-for-profit community-based organizations that work with children/youth. Winners were selected by members of the Awards Committee, which consists of current and past members from the Youth Bureau’s Youth Advisory Board.

“This luncheon is a wonderful opportunity to recognize inspiring youth and the adults and businesses that support them,” Orange County Youth Bureau Director Rachel Wilson said. “We appreciate that County Executive Neuhaus continues to be supportive of this event and all our Youth Bureau initiatives. We are grateful for the investments from the County Legislature, State Office of Children and Family Services, and donations from the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan’s Friends of the Orange County Youth Bureau fund that have helped us provide monetary awards and medals over the years.”