On March 16, 2017 two Boys Town Iowa staff members were recognized for their efforts by the Iowa's Coalition for Family and Children's Services. The Iowa Coalition for Family and Children's Services was established in 1979. It was founded to serve as an alliance for agencies that work to strengthen services for Iowa's children and families.
Every year, the Iowa Coalition for Family and Children's Services chooses a select number of individuals from the many agencies across the state of Iowa who serve children and families whose accomplishments and passions closely align with the organization.
Jeff Hackett, Director of Community Engagement for Boys Town Iowa, was awarded the Tom Lewis Memorial Award and Keely Heitland, In-Home Family Services Supervisor, received the Sue Pitts-Fischer Memorial Award. The Iowa Coalition of Family and Children's Services selected Jeff and Keely for these honors due to their outstanding commitment and service to children and families within the community.
The Tom Lewis Memorial Award is awarded to individuals who show outstanding service, dedication, longevity and diversity in duties to children and families. Jeff received the Tom Lewis Memorial Award to recognize his similar accomplishments in service and dedication to children and families in Iowa.
"I hope this award is an indicator of how all our Boys Town Iowa employees share a commitment and compassion for the children and families we serve," Keely said.
Keely was awarded the Sue Pitts-Fischer Memorial Award to recognize her leadership, mentorship and advancement in practices for children and family services through public and private partnership.
"It was a wonderful surprise and honor to be nominated and presented with such an award, "she said. "Having been a supervisor for almost eight years, this award motivates me to continue to use my experience and knowledge to coach and develop staff as well as advocate for children and families at every level."
Sue Pitts-Fischer was a leader in the child welfare system in Iowa. She dedicated her life to meeting the needs of children and families. The Sue Pitts-Fischer Memorial Award is given to a social worker, family therapist, supervisor or administrator who has shown outstanding achievements within their careers.
"Sue Pitts-Fischer was a highly passionate and driven individual who spent her career working to improve the lives of Iowa children and families. Keely mirrors that passion, leadership, and commitment not only to children and families but also toward mentoring others in the field as Sue Pitts-Fischer did," Debbie Orduna, Executive Director, Boys Town Iowa said.
Jeff and Keely were chosen among many other individuals from numerous agencies across the state of Iowa.
"It is an honor for Keely and Jeff to be chosen from the many nominated for this honor. Boys Town is very fortunate to have them as part of our team in Iowa." Orduna said.
