At the Celebration of Human Services, we remember and recognize the people and organizations who work every day, without fail to make things better in our community. In today’s hyper-politicized environment, we need this moment more than ever.
Together, we can—and DO—find solutions to many of the issues that plague the community. In that way—together—we make lives better. On Friday, November 22, we honored public servants, professionals, and volunteers that have accepted that very charge.
Award for Public Service in Honor of John A. Begala :: Director Matthew Damschroder Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
Matthew Damschroder is celebrated for inspiring innovation and transformational change in improving services to customers and supporting employees at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Appointed interim director in March 2021 and permanent director in July 2021 by Governor Mike DeWine, Mr. Damschroder has directed many advancements at ODJFS.
His accomplishments include modernizing unemployment systems, safeguarding benefits against fraud, simplifying access to nutrition assistance, and championing apprenticeships to strengthen Ohio's workforce. Under his leadership, the agency has also enhanced services for families, including those in foster care and adoption programs, a mission personally meaningful to him as a foster and adoptive parent. Prior, serving as Director of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, Damschroder aided in furthering Gov. DeWine's efforts to improve DEI in State government, making Ohio a model employer for individuals with disabilities.
A Columbus native, he holds an M.A. in Public Policy and Management and a B.S. in Business Administration, both from The Ohio State University.
Anisfield-Wolf Memorial Award :: The Providence House
The Providence House is a nonprofit with a mission to keep kids safe and families together through delivering a holistic, integrated program focused on family preservation. Since 1981, Providence House has cared for and advocated for more than 15,000 children and families in crisis. They offer free, voluntary, non-custodial emergency shelter to children ages newborn through twelve years old who are actively living in crisis situations and support services to their families to help them stay together.
Led by Natalie A. Leek, Providence House, served 876 children and families across 37 zip codes in Northeast Ohio in 2023. Over the last five years, an average of 99% of families who brought a child to stay in Providence House’s Crisis Nursery were reunited after engaging with their services.
High 5 Awards
The High 5 Awards, expanding the mission of our Most Treasured Volunteer Awards, serve as a way to recognize contributions of excellence of volunteers and employees serving Greater Cleveland's human services organizations.
Jason Daubner
In his 15 years with Stella Maris, Jason is known for his compassion and ability to connect with clients. Jason provides unparalleled care, fosters trust, and motivates clients to succeed. He believes in every person and understands the profound impact of the recovery community and peer support in transforming lives. Beyond his role, Jason supports the recovery community by organizing sober activities like a softball league. Described as “humble yet deeply impactful,” Jason’s dedication to helping others is transformative, saving lives, and inspiring hope in clients, colleagues, and the broader community.
Carey Gibbons
At the Northeast Coalition Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, Carey is said to “embody the spirit of social justice through her unwavering dedication, hard work, and compassionate leadership.” In their role as Director of LGBTQ+ Navigation Services, Carey has secured housing for hundreds of queer youth and young adults and transformed local services by training staff on LGBTQ+ cultural competency. Their dedication extends beyond their role, with involvement in programs such as Stonewall Sports. Carey’s leadership, advocacy, and compassion create lasting change for marginalized communities.
Aisia Jones
A dedicated community leader, Aisia Jones, has been a cornerstone of the Northeast Ohio Worker Center since its early days in 2019. Rising to board chair in 2023, she has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including launching the region’s first wage theft clinic and driving legislative victories for wage theft protections across the region. Deeply rooted in equity, she fosters inclusive leadership and tirelessly advocates for workers’ rights. Aisia’s dedication to her work and extensive volunteerism make her a vital force for progress, enriching Cleveland’s community and economy.
Kara Porter
As Executive Vice President at Starting Point, Kara is dedicated to working behind the scenes on the processes, procedures, and outcomes of each facet of the organization. Kara has orchestrated strategic plans and marketing efforts, advocated for structural changes in childcare funding, and has orchestrated new collaborations on training for youth-serving professionals. Her leadership has enhanced organizational operations, increased community impact, and elevated Starting Point's visibility. “It’s impossible to find a part of Starting Point’s business and program operations in which Kara does not have an impact.”
Dr. Elena Yanchar
Dr. Yanchar has been with The Centers for nearly three years, now excelling as Chief of Psychiatry. In her role she has pioneered street outreach for unhoused individuals and launched the WINMat program for substance use treatment. Her innovative, hands-on approach ensures care is accessible to all, including those not sober. Dr. Yanchar’s leadership and dedication to breaking down healthcare barriers have saved lives and earned her trust within the community. She actively volunteers and advocates for systemic change in addiction care.
