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Annual Caught in the Act Team Awards
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INFORMATION CONTACT:
Patrick Niland, County Manager’s Office, Deputy County Manager, 704-283-3630
ACTION REQUESTED:
Recognize the following individuals from numerous County departments for receiving a Caught in the Act Team Award for 2024: Dorothy Tran, Kara Keith, Jackie Deakin, Cindy Spratt, Alexis Sabul, Justin Lesperance, Becky Hatley, Casey Deese, Mary Chickoree, and Susie Calkins.
PRIOR BOARD ACTIONS:
None.
BACKGROUND:
Union County is proud to recognize two exceptional groups as the recipients of the 2024 Caught in the Act Team Award. This annual award celebrates two or more employees who go above and beyond their roles, working together to achieve solutions that result in a tangible impact on the community. Each year, Union County’s Management Team reviews nomination finalists from the previous year and selects teams whose efforts exemplify outstanding service and dedication. The 2024 recipients demonstrated remarkable commitment, problem-solving, and teamwork in their respective fields.
Mental Health Awareness Fundraiser Team
Justin Lesperance, Becky Hatley, Casey Deese, Mary Chickoree, and Susie Calkins received the award for their outstanding efforts in organizing a fundraiser to benefit the Behavioral Health Collaborative (BHC), a partnership between Union County Social Services and Union County Public Schools that supports the social, emotional and mental health well-being of students across Union County. School Resource Officer Lesperance led the charge in developing and marketing a disc golf event, successfully raising nearly $1,000 to support mental health services for local students. The event, which highlighted the importance of suicide awareness and mental health resources, would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of Human Services' Business Operations and Building Code Enforcement. Their innovative problem-solving ensured proper handling of registration fees and internal fund transfers, making the event a resounding success.
Child Health Support Team
Dorothy Tran, Kara Keith, Jackie Deakin, Cindy Spratt, and Alexis Sabul were honored for their compassionate response to a critical family need. After a mother reached out for help following her son’s hospital discharge due to a severe motor vehicle accident, Dr. Tran assembled a team to address immediate medical and supply needs. The group ensured the patient received essential medications, medical supplies and fresh food.
Going beyond their professional duties, Dr. Tran and Jackie Deakin personally purchased supplies on their lunch breaks. Kara Keith adjusted schedules to facilitate a same-day home visit, while Cindy Spratt and Alexis Sabul took food and various medical items and school supplies to the family's home. Their quick and coordinated actions provided vital relief to a family facing immense challenges.
Caught in the Act is a recognition program that allows Union County employees to nominate their peers for going above and beyond their expected roles. The program highlights employees who make a difference through exceptional teamwork, quick thinking, and commitment to excellence.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None.