Six individuals and one organization will be honored May 5 at the Center for Family Health’s eighth annual Advocacy Awards event. The event will be held at the Cascades Manor House in Jackson. Honorees include community leaders, dedicated citizens, and CFH staff members who demonstrate outstanding commitment to health care advocacy and social justice.
“This is an annual event that we look forward to”, said Terry Langston, Director of Communications and Advocacy. “We appreciate the work that community members and our staff do to help make health care more accessible. The individuals being recognized this year do just that.”
This year’s winners include:
Denny Litos, formerly with the Michigan Primary Care Association is being awarded with the Georgia Fojtasek Health Advocacy Award in honor for his tireless advocacy efforts to safeguard Medicaid, the 340B pharmacy program and community health centers throughout Michigan.
The Wellness Team of First United Methodist Church has been awarded the Corporate or Organizational Health Advocacy Award for their efforts in supporting children’s health in the Jackson community. They are an integral part of the Back-to-School program and have engaged other faith-based organizations to join in the effort to make sure kids have what they need for the new school year.
Hillary Bennett, Account Executive at Print-Tech will receive the CFH Ambassador award. Hillary is being recognized for her many hours of volunteering and support as an Ambassador to the Center.
Brad Flory, retired from MLive & Citizen Patriot will receive the Social Justice & Health Advocacy Champion award. Brad has been deeply involved in serving the community through non-profit work and reporting on important health issues.
Three staff members with the Center are also being recognized for their work.
Erin Tomb, Dental/Front Office Manager with the Center, will receive the Health Advocacy Award for her outstanding work in honoring the Center’s mission of “Opening the Doors to Health Care for ALL.” Every day, she advocates for patients to assure they get the best care possible through the Center’s many services.
Mike Littlejohn, a Certified Medical Assistant is receiving the Exemplary Customer Service Award. Mike takes great care to help all patients feel welcome, comfortable, and safe. Mike’s compassion and friendly approach help put patients and family members at ease during the visits to the Center.
And finally, Dr. Navira Rizwan, a family medicine physician with the Center will receive the Exemplary Service Award. Dr. Rizwan has been instrumental in improving the health of the Center’s patients with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. She is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to all and is a leader in her department.
“We are excited to recognize all award recipients.” said Sara Benedetto, Interim CEO & COO for the Center for Family Health. “Their contributions have a positive impact on the patients we serve and our community at large. We congratulate and applaud them for all they do to make a difference!”
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