Jefferson County Public Health is celebrating National Public Health Week April 7-13, and “It Starts Here” is the National Public Health Week theme this year.

In honor of National Public Health Week, JCPH and the Jefferson County Board of Health are honoring people and organizations, nominated by the public, whose contributions have played “a vital role in creating a healthier and more resilient community for all.”

Denise Banker is being recognized for demonstrating “an unwavering commitment” to ensuring that public health programs remain equitable and accessible, benefiting individuals and families across Jefferson County.

The ECHHO staff and volunteers are being acknowledged for providing no-cost durable medical equipment and transportation to medical appointments and other essential services for those 60 years of age and older, along with people who cannot get themselves to appointments due to disabilities.

Carter Erickson is being celebrated for “exemplifying the qualities of a dedicated public servant with compassion” and navigating the challenges of an on-site septic system.

Linda Ferris and Gatheringplace are being recognized for teaching “important life and personal development skills, and promoting opportunity and community integration,” for adults with developmental and other disabilities.

Jessica Garcia and Holly McIlvaine are being acknowledged for providing individual and group social, emotional and behavioral counselling, case management, academic coaching and referrals for students impacted by substance use and/or other behavioral/mental health issues.

AJ Hawkins is being honored for their work to increase understanding of the effect grief can have on physical health.

Mary Hunt is being commended for bringing together farmers and gardeners who donate crops to Jefferson County food banks to feed our local community.

Rae Kala is being acknowledged for providing a source of physical fitness, social connection and mental well-being.

Kimberley Kinser is being recognized for her leadership in establishing a program providing optimal care to acutely ill and injured patients, as well as offering assistance to individuals and families facing challenges including health, behavioral and financial crises, and support for elders in rural areas.

Mazure Pace is being recognized for their “positive energy” in effectively explaining public health services to those “who need them most, making them feel comfortable and eager to engage.”

Salish Coast Elementary School’s Farm-To-School Team is likewise being recognized, in conjunction with the school’s kitchen staff, for producing and feeding thousands of pounds of fresh, nutritionally dense fruits and vegetables, grown and prepared on the school campus, to children each year.

And Sam Touchie is being recognized for their commitment to advocate for youth with disabilities, endeavoring to provide them with skills such as communication, time management, problem-solving and self-advocacy, necessary to thrive in the workforce.

Awards for these people and organizations will be presented at the monthly meeting of the Jefferson County Board of Health, at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, either in person at the Commissioners’ Chambers at the Jefferson County Courthouse, or virtually via Zoom.