Foster care youth gathered at the Iowa State Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 30, 2025, for the annual AMP Day on the Hill. The event opened...
YSS Honors Supporters and Achievements at 2025 Recognition Luncheon

The ballroom at the Gateway Hotel in Ames was filled with hope, opportunity, and lettuce as YSS hosted its 2025 Recognition Luncheon on Jan. 31. The event highlighted the lives changed through YSS programs —thanks to the support of donors, volunteers, and community partners.
The afternoon featured heartfelt stories, a look at YSS’s milestones, and an exciting vision for the future. Most importantly, we had the privilege of recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication makes our mission possible.
The event also featured a historic first for YSS Rooftop Gardens. In a remarkable show of generosity, 11 supporters purchased 5-ounce packages of the program’s first-ever romaine lettuce sold in Ames — each for an incredible $2,500. Every dollar raised will directly support Rooftop Gardens, where young people experiencing homelessness earn $15 per hour, gain valuable workforce development skills, and take steps toward a brighter future.
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: Sacred Heart School
- Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC): Matthew Kolodziej
- YSS of Marshall County: Elly Mack & 100 Women Who Care
- YSS of North Iowa: Dean Snyder Construction
Partner in Purpose Award: Jethro’s BBQ
This award is given to a Recognizing a business whose collaboration furthers YSS’s mission to serve youth and families.
Champion for Youth: Iowa State University Women’s Soccer
This award is given to an individual (or couple/family) who has championed for YSS youth through giving, volunteerism, advocacy, or other support. The nominee is someone who demonstrates outstanding commitment to YSS and has given their time, talent, and treasure to our organization.
Empowering the Youth: Beth Townsend
This award recognizes a volunteer, group, or public servant whose dedication and passion inspire hope and transform lives.
Advocate of Hope Award: Deb and Jim Fisher
This award recognizes exceptional philanthropy that fuels opportunities and empowers the next generation to thrive.
Inspiration Award: Ames Athletic Club, Ben Durbin
This award is given to an external organization, group, or entity that has gone above and beyond to support YSS. The nominee has made a significant impact on YSS and our mission—and sets an inspiring example of community partnership for others.
Dr. George Founder’s Award: Terri Johanson
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: Maranda Earley
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.
Other News
At YSS, our commitment to a lifetime of support goes beyond outpatient services and other recovery programs. We’re proud to offer the Mary Ann and...