UCS celebrates staff and community partners at annual Staff Recognition Luncheon

United Counseling Service (UCS) celebrated its staff of over 300 along with valued community partners at the agency’s annual Staff Recognition Luncheon on June 24 at the Sacred Heart Saint Francis Parish House in Bennington, VT. The agency presented awards for years of service, team excellence, and individual contributions.

“On behalf of the entire Board of Directors we were honored to be able to celebrate the staff of UCS and Community Partners who play such a pivotal role in helping our community,” said Bob Thompson, UCS Board President. “The opportunity to recognize the contributions made this past year is a reminder of the compassion, dedication, and commitment that make our organization and community stronger every day.” 

The Children, Youth, and Family Services (CYFS) leadership team received the Team Excellence Award in recognition of their resilience and collaborative efforts. 

Several individuals were honored with awards for exemplary service and dedication:

• Victoria Potter of UCS Emergency Services received the Julie Haynes Held Memorial Award, acknowledging her outstanding contributions and embodiment of UCS values.
• Joslin Dickie of the Psychiatric Medical Team and Ashley Prestipino of Early Childhood Services were honored with the Gerrit Kouwenhoven Staff Development Award, named in memory of former UCS Executive Director Gerrit Kouwenhoven, celebrating their commitment to growth and professional development.
• Tonya Havens of Early Childhood Services was awarded the Peter D. Scully Award, commemorating the legacy of former UCS Medical Director Dr. Peter D. Scully and recognizing excellence in clinical service.

In addition, UCS presented Excellence Awards to a number of staff members who have gone above and beyond in their roles. Excellence Awards recipients included:

Allyson Gerity (Early Childhood Services), Ann Barber (Developmental Services), Brittany Belville (Early Childhood Services), Carol McLenithan (Finance), Cheryl Jolivette (Operations), Jean Cavalluzzi (Developmental Services), Jeremy Chaplin (Children, Youth and Family Services), Kaitlyn Hamilton (Developmental Services), Kim Brooks (Operations), LC (Operations), Makenna Thibodeau (Early Childhood Services), Matthew Maroney (Developmental Services), Michelle Richardson (Developmental Services/Operations), Sandrya Matteson (Developmental Services), Sierra Fiata (Early Childhood Services)

“While this year has brought significant change to UCS, it was wonderful to pause, reflect, and celebrate the people who make this work possible,” said Anne Bilodeau, Interim Chief Administrative Officer. “The luncheon was a meaningful reminder that the strength of UCS has always been its people, and I’m grateful for everything they bring to our clients, one another, and the future of our organization.” The event also celebrated contributions from community partners. The Barn Sale Committee was named the recipient of the Cleveland E. and Phyllis B. Dodge Community Service Award, which honors a community member or organization whose support of UCS and its mission has been notable and significant. The Barn Sale Committee holds the annual Barn Sale fundraiser for UCS services in the Northshire, raising almost one million dollars for the agency through the years. 

Sheriff James Gulley was presented with the Harold C. “Archie” Warner Memorial Award, which recognizes exceptional contributions to children’s programs. The award commemorates Harold “Archie” Warner, who served on the UCS Board of Directors from 1992 until his passing in 2008. Sheriff Gulley and community partners contribute gifts, meal baskets, and holiday cheer for Head Start families in need each winter through the Bennington County Sheriff’s Secret Santa Program, raising $10,000 this past year for the effort. 

United Counseling Service appreciates all staff and community partners who make a difference every day for community members across Bennington County. To learn more about UCS and its programs and services, please visit ucsvt.org.