|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 7 , 2006
CONTACT:
Michael Runestad
317-634-6341 x 135
miker@family-service-inc.org
Exemplary families to be honored at breakfast event
One family owns and operates a local bakery, another has created a unique family that blends different ages and races, while the third is known for its efforts to make society more accepting of individuals with disabilities. While each story is different, these three Central Indiana families all have one thing in common: they are all inspirational examples of the positive power of family.
On Friday, April 21, Family Service of Central Indiana, Inc. will present José Luis & Maria Alcauter and Family, Johnny & Dawn Guest and Family, and Mike & Valerie Strohl and Family with the Alice M. Ross “Salute to Family” award at Salute to Families, presented by United Water. The event takes place at the Union Federal Colts Complex with the breakfast and registration beginning at 8 A.M.
| |
José Luis & Maria Alcauter and Family |
| |
|
Nominated by Marco Dominguez |
| |
The Alcauter family has overcome incredible obstacles since coming to Indiana. Despite the challenges of moving to a new country without knowing the language, the family started their own business, Merry’s Bakery, and watched it and their family grow into pillars of the local Hispanic community. Even with all their community involvement and professional responsibilities, José Luis and Maria place a highvalue on family and have made raising their six children a priority. |
| |
|
| |
Johnny & Dawn Guest and Family |
| |
|
Nominated by John Williams |
| |
Johnny and Dawn Guest have a family diverse in age and race; they created a unique blended family with two children from previous marriages, one biological child of their own, and four foster children. Johnny, who works in the City of Indianapolis’ Division of Compliance in the Department of Metropolitan Development, and Dawn, a former nurse, recently began the adoption process for the four siblings that they are currently fostering. Raising four toddlers in addition to their adolescent children can be hectic, but Johnny and Dawn love every minute of it. “We have to be on a schedule,” Johnny said. “And with four toddlers, everyone learns to share really quickly.” |
| |
|
| |
Mike & Valerie Strohl and Family |
| |
|
Nominated by Michael Howland |
| |
Mike and Valerie Strohl have three daughters: Claire, Rachel and Sarah. The youngest, Sarah, was born with Down syndrome, which has inspired and motivated the family to advocate for children and individuals with disabilities. Mike, who is Treasurer of Citizens Gas, serves on the Noble of Indiana, Inc. Board of Directors while Valerie is chair of the Indiana First Steps Interagency Coordinating Council. And while both Mike and Valerie acknowledge the tremendous effort it takes for a family not to be consumed by one member’s disability, they take tremendous pride in how well their older daughters love and support Sarah. |
| |
|
Since its founding over 170 years ago, Family Service has been committed to building strong families and presents the Alice M. Ross “Salute to Family” award to highlight the achievements of exemplary families. At the annual Salute to Families breakfast, the event will also celebrate Family Service’s many accomplishments and achievements from 2005.
What: The annual Family Service Salute to Families, presented by United Water
Where: The pavilion at the Union Federal Football Center ( 7001 West 56th Street)
When: Friday, April 21 with registration and breakfast beginning at 8 A.M.
Why: To recognize three outstanding families while raising support for and awareness of the many programs of Family Service of Central Indiana, Inc.
Cost: Tickets are $35 for individuals and $300 for a table sponsorship and can be purchased by calling Stacy Clark at (317) 634-6341.
Salute to Families is proudly presented by United Water. United Water is committed to building a better community and celebrating the successes of local families.
About Alice M. Ross:
A special friend of Family Service, Alice M. Ross was a beloved philanthropist, volunteer and longtime resident of Central Indiana. Perhaps best remembered for her energy and enthusiasm, Ross gave tremendous support to organizations and people from all walks of life. It is in her honor that Family Service recognizes exemplary families from the Central Indiana community.
About Family Service:
Supporting families since 1835, Family Service of Central Indiana, Inc. strengthens families to overcome typical marital or family conflicts and more serious challenges like domestic violence and chemical dependency; provides training and support for individuals to become better parents, caregivers, money managers, supervisors, and employees; and empowers adults to continue to live independently as they learn to cope with aging, mental and/or physical challenges. In 2005, over 9,250 individuals from Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, and Morgan counties were guided toward their goal of a stronger, healthier family by the caring counselors at Family Service.
About United Water:
United Water operates municipal water and wastewater systems through public-private partnerships and contract agreements. With 130 years of water management expertise, United Water has the financial resources and technical know-how to help clients meet current and future challenges. The company offers customized, cost-effective solutions to communities of all sizes. In Indianapolis, under the direction of the department of Public Works, United Water operates, maintains, and manages the City's two Advanced Wastewater Treatment (AWT) facilities, storm and wastewater collection system and the Eagle Creek Dam. In Indiana, United Water also operates in Gary and the town of Cumberland. For more information, please call (317) 639-7000 or visit www.unitedwater.com
- # # # -
|
