Passages, Inc. awards four Community Partner Awards

​COLUMBIA CITY, Ind. (August 17, 2020) – Local nonprofit Passages, Inc. recently awarded its annual Community Partner Awards to Community Foundation of Whitley County, United Way of Whitley County, AWS Foundation, and Mrs. Lori Shipman of Lori Shipman Consulting, LLC.

“We started presenting the Community Partner awards six years ago as a way to honor those who come alongside Passages throughout the year,” Jason Meyer, President and CEO of Passages said. “All four recipients this year have supported us throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, and to them we are very grateful.”

“Passages has been a cornerstone organization in Whitley County for decades. Their direct support staff do such great work ensuring that people with disabilities are woven into the daily fabric of our community. So much so, that we often don't see the support person working so hard behind the scenes,” Lori Shipman of Shipman Consulting said. “When my family heard about the challenges of finding appropriate PPE for direct support professionals, we knew we had to act, and use this difficult time in all of our lives, to find larger purpose.”

The Community Foundation of Whitley County is a longstanding partner of Passages. September McConnell, Executive Director of the Community Foundation, said to be honored with the Community Partner award was a tremendous recognition.

"If you want to see the best-hearted people in Whitley County, look no further than Passages. From their humble clients to the inspirational care providers and professional administrative team, the organization is a reflection of sheer goodness,” McConnell said. “We are grateful to our donors, past and present, whose gifts allow us to support the wonderful programs provided by Passages."

AWS Foundation strives to help children and adults with enduring intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities to live as independently as possible, be included in the community and function at their highest potential. AWS Foundation helps Passages each year by supporting many initiatives.
 
“AWS Foundation is proud to partner with such a quality provider as Passages,” Patti Hays, CEO, said. “Their commitment to personalized services offering a wide range of options, including the arts, aligns with our mission of life enrichment. How appropriate to have the award be marked by such a beautiful original piece of art.”

Passages’ annual meeting will be held in virtual form this year via video on the Passages website: www.passagesinc.org.