YSS holds annual Recognition Luncheon

YSS held its 2024 Recognition Luncheon on Feb. 1 at the Gateway Hotel in Ames. The annual event celebrates YSS’s supporters, as well as highlights the organization’s achievements and looks to the year ahead.

Kara Warme, YSS Chief Development Officer, gave welcoming remarks and YSS President & CEO Andrew Allen provided an update on YSS’s impact and upcoming initiatives.

The following award winners were honored:

Outstanding Service Awards

These awards given to an outstanding individual or organization in each YSS community-based center who has made a significant impact through volunteerism and service.

• YSS of Boone County: Fran Duncan
• YSS of Hamilton County: Maxine Packard Estate
• Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC): Friends of YSS
• YSS of Marshall County: Warren Dukes
• YSS of North Iowa: Donna Furleigh

YSS Inspiration Award: Emma and Doug Houghton

This award is given to an external organization, group, or entity that has gone above and beyond to support YSS. The nominee sets an inspiring example of community partnership for others.

YSS Champion for Youth: Iowa State University athletics

This award is given to an organization or company who has championed for YSS youth through giving, volunteerism, advocacy, or other support.

YSS Empowering the Youth: Underwood Family

This award is given to an individual (or couple/family) who has financially empowered the impact of YSS. The nominee is someone who has given their time, talent, and treasure to our organization.

Dr. George Founder’s Award: Sheila Paul

This award is given to a past or present direct-service employee with 10+ years at YSS, who helped others overcome adversity and fight against addiction, mental illness, bullying, sex trafficking, homelessness, child abuse or neglect. The award is sponsored by Dr. George Belitsos, YSS founder and former CEO.

Dr. George Inspiring Hope Award: Renee Harris

This award is given to a past participant of a YSS program who has overcome adversity and inspired others to fight against addiction, mental illness, bullying, sex trafficking, homelessness, child abuse or neglect. The award is sponsored by Dr. George Belitsos, YSS founder and former CEO.

The luncheon and ceremony were attended by donors, staff, and community partners.