On June 13, 2024, AWARE held its annual Unconditional Care Principles (UCC) Awards Banquet at The Newberry in Great Falls, MT. The event recognized outstanding employees and community partners who exemplify AWARE's commitment to empowering individuals and families.
The evening began with opening remarks from Matt Bugni, AWARE’s CEO, followed by a presentation on UCC Principles by Traci Shinabarger, AWARE’s Clinical Director. The awards ceremony then commenced, honoring fourteen individuals who demonstrated exceptional dedication to AWARE's mission.
AWARE Service Directors took turns announcing the awards for staff within their service lines while COO Leighann Knight, AWARE’s COO, and Francine Cooper, AWARE’s CFO, handed out award plaques and flowers.
The 10 UCC Awards were presented to the following team members:
Building on strengths is the key to success: Nancy Meinhardt a FACT Child and Family Case Manager in Helena.
We take on – and stick with – the hardest challenges: Mary Sandoval a Lead Clinical Program Supervisor at the Center for Excellence in Anaconda.
We are agents of change: Alexis Saxton a Targeted Case Manager in Billings.
Everything is normal until proven otherwise: Clifton “T” Geter a Residential Program Manager in Great Falls.
Families are our most important resource: Patty Cutshall-Bailey an Early Childhood Family Advocate in Helena.
I’m OK, you’re OK: Christian Johnson a Residential Coordinator in Great Falls.
It takes a team: Jenny Britsch, Billy Barnhill, Tim Hahn, Larris Allick, and Justin White who represent a residential team in Great Falls that handled a medical emergency in the best way possible.
Our connection with our communities is vital: Hannah Chapman a SDMI Case Manager in Missoula
We strive for the highest quality of care: Shelby Beck a School-Based LCPC in Great Falls
Lighten up and laugh: Bryan White a residential program specialist in Anaconda
The banquet also featured three special awards:
The Independent Spirit Award was presented to Faith One Bear, recognizing her outstanding achievements and resilience in the face of numerous challenges. (Read her story here!)
Mary Windecker, the executive director of the Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana, received the George Groesbeck Award for her 30+ years of advocacy in behavioral health care.
Jennifer Reed, a Health and Disabilities Manager for Early Childhood, was named AWARE's Employee of the Year for her exceptional performance and embodiment of all UCC Principles.
Matt Bugni expressed his gratitude to all award winners and attendees, stating, "It's an honor and a privilege to work amongst such compassionate and dedicated professionals. We've accomplished some great things this past year, and we can't wait to see where we'll be next year!"
The UCC Principles Awards Banquet serves as a testament to AWARE's ongoing commitment to fostering independence, building on individual strengths, and providing the highest quality of care to those they serve. As the organization continues to make a positive impact in communities across Montana, events like these celebrate the hard work and dedication of those who make it all possible.
Next year’s UCC Awards Banquet is set for Missoula – stay tuned for more information soon!
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