Submitted
As Carlos made his way to the podium, the crowd excitedly chanted his name in a show of love and support for their friend as he accepted the Janus Day Services Person of the Year Award.
Carlos, who participates in the Work Experience and Doorways program, has been a member of the Janus family for over 13 years. Carlos possesses an incredible smile, a warm personality. and a special kindness which shines through in everything that he does. Carlos enjoys music and painting and loves to be busy. He likes going out and watching sporting events and spending time with family and friends.
Carlos’ sister Janeth proudly watched alongside her husband Greg, as her brother received his award. “Tonight is a night that Greg, Carlos and I will never forget!” said Janeth. “I had no idea that our Carlos was going to receive such an important and meaningful award! I can only say that I am deeply grateful to Tim White, Linda Adams and Chris Sorensen and all of the staff at Janus for giving so much meaning to my brother’s life. He loves you all! Tonight, was the best night of his life, and needless to say, an emotional evening for me!”
Each year, Janus holds the Awards Banquet to recognize and celebrate the achievements of clients, staff, board members and community partners. This year, Joe Melillo, Special Projects Account Executive and host of “Joe on the Go,” HYFN Local/WISHTV.com, served as Master of Ceremonies. Joe’s quick wit and great sense of humor contributed to an immensely enjoyable evening. Joe is passionate about helping the community and organizations like Janus. Joe’s Aunt Jenette, who recently passed away, was born with a developmental disability, so it was especially meaningful to have Joe emcee the Janus Awards Banquet.
The evening is made possible through the efforts of the Knights of Columbus Father Thomas J. Kelley Council #6923, who provided the banquet hall and the dinner, and the Janus “Cookie Crew” who provided the desserts.
The 2019 Janus Awards presented are as follows:
- Partnership Award: Union Savings Bank
- Volunteers of the Year Award: Bob and Cathy Palmer
- Business of the Year Awards: Linnea’s Lights and IMMI
- Work Experience Standard of Excellence Award: Shandi Vance
- Doorways Brilliance Award: Ben Kellams
- Capabilities Café Silver Spoon Award: Dustin Worthman
- Hidden Talents Splash of Color Award: Tim Ripberger
- Aktion Club Leadership Award: Kelsey Royal
- Five O’Clock Somewhere Award: James Dailey and Kelsey Harris
- Community Employment Going the Distance Award: Terry Dunn, Shayln Burwell, Megan Varnau, Megan Roberts, and Jennifer Bolander
- Day Services Person of the Year Award: Carlos Herrera
- Community Employment Person of the Year: Andy Moseley
- Staff Member of the Year: Abbie McIntyre
In addition, recognition awards were presented to Janus clients who participate in the Janus Doorways, Work Experience and Community Employment programs. The award recipients serve as an inspiration to everyone and their stories of success highlight their strength, abilities and determination.