PARC 51st Annual Awards Banquet

On Thursday May 15, 2008 PARC held its 51st Annual Awards Banquet. The celebration gave PARC an opportunity to recognize and honor the many members of the community whose dedication and hard work enable us to offer choices for a quality life to individuals with developmental disabilities.

The keynote speakers were Laura and Tom McNeal, prize-winning authors of short stories, essays, and five novels, including four for young adults. Their critically-acclaimed young adult novels include The Decoding of Lana Morris, Crushed, Zipped, and Crooked.

Their most recent work is entitled The Decoding of Lana Morris. The authors are donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book to The ARC of the USA.

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Award Presentations

Chuck Dykhouse Received PARC's President's Award, recognizing him for his extraordinary advocacy and support on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Business Partner of the Year Award went to Shamrock Plastics, Inc.

Employer of the Year Award went to the Peoria Christian Center.

Gina Morss received the Friend of PARC Award.

Kathie Raiborn received the Advocacy Award.

Carol Krosse and Gizmo received the Individual Volunteer of the Year Award.

Morgan Kolettis received the Youth Volunteer of the Year Award.

The men of Bradley University's Pi Kappa Phi received the Organization Volunteer of the Year Award.

Peoria Academy's lady Bulldogs received special recognition for a youth initiative partnership with PARC.

Rogy's Learning Place was recognized as Corporate Sponsor of the Year.

PTC Select received the PARC Partner of the Year Award.

Sharon Goulding received the Roger Harkin Award.

Jane Ellwood was name Employee of the Year for her hard work and dedication to PARC.

PARC Star Achiever Awards went to: Jackie Farrar, Emily Selig, Susie Forney and John Hallman.

PARC wishes to thank the following businesses for their support of the event:

Mari Halliday, Realtor with Jim Maloof/Realtor is a continued supporter of PARC. If you are thinking of buying or selling a home or know someone that is, please contact Mari Halliday at (309) 251-6069 or email mhalliday@maloofrealty.com.