United Counseling Service holds annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon to recognize staff and community achievements

United Counseling Service (UCS) held its annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon at the Sacred Heart Saint Francis Parish House in Bennington, VT, on June 12, to recognize achievements of its staff and community partners. More than 200 UCS staff, board members, and community partners gathered for a lunch and celebration. UCS presented service awards from five to 35 years, as well as awards for staff excellence, team excellence, community awards.

UCS Executive Director Lorna Mattern addressed the audience: “In the bustling world we live in, it’s all too easy to overlook the everyday heroes who tirelessly work to fulfill our mission of building a stronger community by empowering individuals and families to live healthy and meaningful lives. But today, we pause to recognize and honor your invaluable contributions.”

UCS presents two awards to community partners each year. This year Tara Lowary, owner of Rhythm Hollow Stables and founding member and executive director of Kanthaka Equine, which offers equine assisted therapy program in North Bennington, VT received The Cleveland and Phyllis Dodge Community Service Award. This year’s Harold C. “Archie” Warner Memorial Award was presented to Michelle Prouty, owner of family childcare home program, Forever Friends Playschool, partner of United Children’s Services.

The Peter D. Scully Memorial Award is named after UCS’ former Medical Director, Dr. Scully. This year’s awards were presented to Debra Lucey and Grace Winslow. Numerous other awards were presented to staff during the celebration.

“Our annual luncheon is something I look forward to every year,” says Mattern. “The celebration is a small token of gratitude for the dedication and support that staff provide to our clients, and the valuable support and collaboration from our community partners.”