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Highlands Today

A Wonderful Place

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Jacquelyn Rawlings

Published: October 9, 2008

Thirty-seven years ago, I was fortunate to be offered a state social work position in Highlands County. At that time I had no idea what a unique and wonderful place this would be to live and work.

This county is peopled by remarkable individuals who have taught me, mentored me, supported me and encouraged me throughout my career. From Alice Hanson, who was my first supervisor and mentor to Susan Franza Buelow, who has been my friend and co-worker throughout my career, to Kevin Roberts who has been many things to me including supervisor, role model and friend; everyone who I have worked with or for has been wonderful.

I recently had the honor of receiving the Judge Kelly Champion for Children Award. This is truly an honor and privilege for me and the high point of my career. I had the good fortune to have known Judge Kelly and of having presented cases in his court. He was truly a remarkable and gifted man. The only thing that could have made receiving this award better would have been to have him present on the stage.

I, however, must say that it is easy to be a "champion" when surrounded by the citizens of this county. What other county our size has an accredited Children's Advocacy Center that was built with a unique public-private partnership, and has such outstanding sports complexes for our children and youth? Where else can you find so many individuals willing to donate time and money to so many causes from the YMCA to educational awards to sports programs, and has an expanding Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, as well as extremely active Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and 4-H?

What other county our size was ready with money, time and energy to address the teen parent problem with supportive services and preventive programs? To each and every citizen of Highlands County: You are the true champions who have made the lives of many children better and my job more fulfilling. Thank you all.

Jacquelyn Rawlings
Lake Placid

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