DHS recognizes state volunteers and community partners - Stillwater Makes A Change (SMAC)

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Community and Faith Engagement (OCFE) hosted its 35^th annual Volunteer and Community Partner Recognition Awards Ceremony on April 18, 2018 at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. The theme of this year's event was 'Defining Excellence!' Twelve organizations and six individuals were recognized for their efforts and contributions to communities statewide. The awards were presented by Sheree Powell, DHS Director of Communications and Community Relations.

Stillwater Makes a Change – or SMAC – raised money for local charitable organizations, including the Saville Center for Child Advocacy, which facilitates programs for the prevention of child abuse; MPOWER, which provides employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities; Payne County Youth Services, which provides community-based mental health and substance abuse treatment for children and adults; Turning Point Ranch, which provides equine therapy for persons experiencing physical, mental or emotional distress; and Our Daily Bread, a food resource center which provides food to families at or below the poverty level.

"We salute all our volunteers - they are so inspiring," said DHS OCFE Administrator Karen Jacobs. "From individuals to group efforts, we have seen a genuine outpouring of compassion and commitment to help others. It is humbling to see so many people get involved in their communities to help meet the ongoing needs of families and children across the state."

From left: DHS Communications Director Sheree Powell, Beau Henneha, Mallie Reuter, Rep. Cory Williams (D)-Stillwater

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