We are excited to announce the Honorees who we will be recognizing this year at our annual HONORS 2015 gala at The Fillmore in Silver Spring on October 8th.  This year we will be conferring awards to Rob Chasteen-Scheer, Markita Bryant, Sergeant David Jenks, Alan Schulman, and a Hearts & Homes staff member.

Rob Chasteen-Scheer will receive the Rex Smith Legacy Award. Rob is the founder of Comfort Cases, an organization created to bring comfort to thousands of kids in the foster care system by providing them with suitcases full of basic necessities. Rob, a foster parent and former foster youth, has dedicated himself to the community and to making sure that foster youth receive something that comforts them, something of their own and they realize how important they are.

Miss Rhode Island United States Markita Bryant will receive the Avis Birely award, conferred in honor of Avis Birely who was a devoted advocate for Hearts & Homes for Youth and grand public servant in the community. For the past 3 years, Markita has made an effort on numerous occasions to build support for Hearts & Homes for Youth in the community and get other people involved in our organization. The most outstanding contribution from Markita has been at the Princess Party, where she encourages our young women to embrace and express themselves.

The CEO’s Volunteer Service Award will be given to Sergeant David Jenks of the U.S. Marines who has above and beyond to support Hearts & Homes for Youth and deserves to be recognized apart from his peers. Sergeant Jenks does not seek recognition but his example continuously delivers a powerful message that encourages others to take action. Sergeant Jenks has set an example for all of us by his consistent positive energy, leadership, and dedication to the community. We are humbled that in addition to serving our country, Sergeant Jenks has devoted his time to serving our community and specifically the youth in our care.

The Chairman’s Award will be conferred to board member Alan Schulman for his outstanding dedication and commitment to our agency and mission.  Alan Schulman has been exemplar of the dedication all organizations seek from their board members. For years, Alan has been tirelessly dedicated to drumming up support in the community for our events, activities for the youth, and general support for and understanding of our mission. His leadership, engagement, and oversight have contributed enormously to the success of our events. Alan is extraordinarily generous with his time, wisdom, and financial support while ensuring that the events remain committed to our mission and guiding values.

Click here for more information about HONORS 2015 gala!