James “JR” Robertson, Lead Program Aide, YNC Rochester, was recently named the recipient of the Sister Helen Louise Roth Award for Commitment to Youth. See below for an excerpt from the press release:
“On Nov. 10, James Robertson, lead program aide for Family & Children’s Center’s youth night campus program in Rochester, Minn., received the Sister Helen Louise Roth Award for Commitment to Youth by the Minnesota Council of Child Caring Agencies (MCCCA).
After surviving being separated from his family after Hurricane Katrina, being homeless as a teen and becoming a teen parent, Robertson’s past gives him the experience to provide tremendous support and leadership to the youth he serves. He went on to pursue a college degree and is set to obtain a Master’s in Social Work at Winona State University. He volunteers throughout the community and is always ready to lend a helping hand to others.
“James embodies what so many of our clients can become. That’s the true story of hope and healing he brings to the table—teaching that there is nothing that can’t be overcome with perseverance,” says Leah Morken, director of Minnesota services for Family & Children’s Center.
Every year the MCCCA asks member agencies to nominate employees who go beyond the call of duty in caring for children. The award is given to those employees who exemplify the commitment, dedication and tireless devotion to children that Sister Helen demonstrated throughout her life. This is the twenty sixth year the MCCCA presented this special award.”
Congratulations, JR!