Grace Bates
Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership (COIPP)
Grace has been with COIPP a little over one year, and in that time has proven to be invaluable to the organization as Program Coordinator. When she hears about clients’ situations when taking their calls at the office, Grace applies her experience in public health education, social work, and community outreach when supporting COIPP’s programs, and board members frequently go to her for guidance on internal issues. The families have gotten to know her, and reach out for information and advice.
Grace describes as her greatest accomplishment facilitating these programs and making it easier and less stressful for the families, knowing that COIPP is doing work that directly mitigates or prevents adverse childhood experiences (ACES). She really understands the difficulties that a child and the family go through and loves knowing that COIPP can have such a large impact, making a huge difference for them and “moving the dial”. She likes seeing the individual impact which gives you a personal sense of purpose. She describes Frederick, local nonprofits, and the business community to all be so welcoming, with everyone working together to lift up the community.
“It is rare to meet anyone like Grace. She is a jewel. Her patience, talent, empathy and genuine kindness has made her a COIPP favorite. She almost always has an answer when I go to her for help and if she doesn’t, she does the needed research to solve the problem. I cannot think of a board member who doesn’t sing Grace’s praise. I have also watched her work with our families and she remains compassionate, non- judgmental and kind. She is a gift to our organization and to all who meet her. ” Shari Scher, Executive Director
Glorie Cassutto
The Frederick Center
Glorie works as the Program Director and runs free support programs that meet throughout the month, helping to facilitate those groups, oversee events, fundraising, case management with clients who walk in and need support, and helps run the drop-in center. The experiences of the LGBTQ+ community can make people feel isolated and alone, even in an accepting community. Glorie helps the young people, their families, adults coming out later and seniors with love and compassion to facilitate growth and confidence within our community.
Glories describes “my biggest and favorite accomplishment” has been the creation of a support group for people who come out later in life or after adolescence. “The sense of community here is so moving and beautiful and it’s a privilege to get to connect people and be a part of not just the difficult parts helping people survive their toughest moments, but also to be a part of their huge grand celebratory moments.” We get to be a part of the ups and downs of people’s lives and I love getting to build these connections with our community.
“I have watched dozens of nervous newbies walk into the Frederick Center just to be greeted by Glorie’s love, compassion and acceptance and watch their nervous armor melt away. Glorie is one in a million and I’m so glad they serve our community.” Amanda, Nominator
Visit The Frederick Center’s website
Dana Deyton
Mission of Mercy
As Equipment Manager/Dental Assistant/Driver, Dana is extremely versatile, playing many critical roles on the team. From consoling patients and treating them with love, respect, and compassion, to ensuring that the vehicles are serviced and ready for clinic days. During the two years she has been employed, she became certified as
a dental assistant and x-ray technician. Compassion is the most important piece of what she does. She does her best to always make sure people know that there’s no shame or blame and that Mission of Mercy is there to help. She tries to treat everyone the way she would want to be treated in the same circumstance.
Dana said her biggest accomplishment she feels is internal. She has learned to be compassionate, patient, and humble. “We’re all humans who need each other.” She enjoys working at Mission of Mercy because it’s a family. Everyone supports everyone and they are working toward the same goals. The volunteers are all so willing, patient-focused and it doesn’t matter where you come from or what your beliefs are.
“Mission of Mercy is delighted to nominate Dana Deyton for the Touching Lives Award. She has dedicated her life to helping those who are sick and suffering by restoring their dignity and healing them through Love. She personifies the “mission” of Mission of Mercy and we love and appreciate her!” -Linda Ryan, Executive Director
Visit Mission of Mercy’s website
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