Doing Good in Ocala

Yanique Duff-Ballard glowed as her organization’s name was called out.

“It feels like we won a Grammy,” she said. Yanique works with Interfaith Emergency Services, and on Thursday, April 24, she accepted a DOie award on behalf of the organization that helps people who are experiencing homelessness.

The reception and the DOie awards are our way of thanking our partners, volunteers, and supporters. We couldn’t do this work without them.

Every year, we host a Doing Good Together reception in each of our regions, and on Thursday, we turned the spotlight on North Central Florida. The lovely Country Club of Ocala set the scene for excitement, stories of impact, and connection.

We are also grateful to be able to share O.C.’s story at the reception. O.C. needed emergency surgery but had no one to care for her children. Watch her story:

 

 

The DOie awards — that’s “do” as in the recipients are doing good — commemorate the contributions of our community. In the style of a prized baseball card, each award recognizes the recipient’s impact with Better Together and includes a personalized quote.

 

This year’s winners of the North Central Florida DOies are:

Church Partner of the Year

Church of Hope

Led by Pastor Mark Cummins, Church of Hope lives out the biblical definition of the Church—serving, loving, and leading with a heart that reflects Christ’s love.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Champion for Strong Families

Straight Line Construction

More than supporters, Dan and Deanna Eckhard are champions for strong families. They help raise awareness, build community, and ensure children and families receive the support they need.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Super Volunteer of the Year

Alecia Randolph

Alecia’s commitment to showing up, stepping in, and leading with a servant’s heart is an inspiration to us all.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Community Partner of the Year

Interfaith Emergency Services

Interfaith consistently prioritizes the needs of families in crisis and works to find solutions even when it requires thinking outside their typical role. They have an incredible heart for families and the community.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

DCF Partner of the Year

Amy Cook

In her role as Supervisor for the Department of Children and Families, Amy has connected several parents to Better Together. She brings passion and excellence to her work and even volunteers at our events for families.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Mentor of the Year

Tinslie Pickett

Tinslie helps families set goals but also walks alongside them with unwavering commitment, friendship, and encouragement.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Host Family of the Year

Thomas and Laura Gerds

The Gerds and their children support families by caring for children in their home while the parents do the hard work of getting back on their feet. They also walk alongside their fellow volunteers, lending support at every opportunity.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Staff Appreciation Award

Tara Williams

Tara embodies the core values of our organization and is deeply committed to ensuring that every family we serve feels seen, valued, and loved.

— Devin McKnight, North Central Florida Executive Director

 

Enjoy these images from this impactful evening (click image to see full-size gallery):

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Moments by Kinfay / Story by Pamela