Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry and the Social Services Advisory Board (SSAB) presented the annual Making a Difference Awards at the Making a Difference…Human Services Forum, Friday, October 16, 2009. The awards recognize extraordinary achievements, by an individual and organization that assist individuals in maintaining or achieving self-sufficiency.
Mr. Pry awarded the 2009 Making a Difference award for an individual to Dr. Douglas Lefton. Lefton, an Akron family practice physician, spearheaded an effort on the part of the Summit County Medical Society in identifying a growing number of patients with little or no health insurance who were unable to afford prescribed lab work. Months later, Lefton identified Pioneer Physicians Network to do the lab work at little or no cost.
Rebuilding Together Summit County was this year’s organization winner. The nomination cited the organization for its work in home rehabilitation and repair for hundreds of Summit County senior and/or disabled homeowners allowing them to continue to live safely and independently.
The awards were presented during the luncheon portion of the program held at Akron Urban League. The Forum, now in its sixth year, gathers professionals from many disciplines to provide continuing education about programs and initiatives throughout Greater Summit County.
Terri Burns