News from
CONCERN
CONCERN Presents Annual Leadership Award
 The 8th Annual CONCERN Leadership Award was awarded to CONCERN foster parentsCarol and Ken Stevens. Affectionately known as “Grammy” and “Pop,” the Stevens have made a difference in the lives of more than 150 children over 22 years of foster parenting.
This award coincided with the Stevens retiring from foster parenting. CONCERN Northeast office caseworkers Mary Lou Cantafio and Scott Wasilewski, who both worked with the Stevens for more than 15 years, gave heartfelt thanks and appreciation at a luncheon given in their honor.
Ms. Cantafio recounted that “no placement was ever too overwhelming” for the Stevens as they accepted babies, young children, teens, sibling groups, and children with disabilities into their home at any time – day, evening or in the middle of the night.
Mr. Wasilewski said “it was always very obvious that the children were welcomed into their home without judgment . . . and everyone was treated equally as if they were truly a member of the Stevens family.”
Accepting the award on behalf of her and her husband, Mrs. Stevens concluded by stating “As much as we have given to these children, we have received so much more. These have been 22 wonderful years and if we had the strength, we would do 22 more.”
CONCERN is an organization that values and promotes leadership. As recognition of the importance of leadership, CONCERN created the annual CONCERN Leadership Award. This award is presented to an individual, group, or organization whose example of leadership enhances the quality of life for others. Any individual, group, or organization that consistently demonstrates leadership characteristics through a variety of activities at a local, state, or national level is eligible for nomination.
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