‘Takes A Village’

Volunteers Provide ‘Bright Spots’ In Lives Of Children

Eight area volunteers who provide a bright spot in the lives of the children they help spent some time in the spotlight this week.

Bright Spots of Chautauqua County hosted an award ceremony, "There Goes my Hero," honoring Jim Tennies, nominated by Alexis Delcamp and Maddie Bartok; Marjorie Bohn, nominated by Mykala and Taylor White; Coach McLhinney, nominated by Meredith Stelmack; Juan Salgado, nominated by Olivia Stewart; Mimi Joint, nominated by Jeda Alexis Hutoon; Cassie Stroth, nominated by Chloe Stroth; Stephanie Janicki, nominated by Gwen Murray; and Michael Putney, nominated by Quinn Putney.

Bright Spots of Chautauqua County is a conglomerate of service agencies and non-profit organizations. The groups were each nominated by local youth and represented a pool of teachers, coaches, family members and child advocates.

"Every year we try to highlight some of the best, hardworking and most dedicated individuals in our communities who are making a difference," said Laurie Reynolds, Prevention Works Inc. of Jamestown's associate director. "This year we had kids nominate and advocate for people they feel are making the most impact on them. They had to write a summary of why their nominated individual should be honored and receive this award."

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist attended the ceremony and spoke about the awards given to the eight honorees.

"It takes a village … or so goes the saying," Sundquist said. "It's nice to highlight these awardees for their handiwork and dedication to our youth."

After the awards were handed out, Reynolds stated, "It always nice to honor those who are our area's unsung heroes. The people who are making a difference in the lives of the future leaders of our city, county and nation."