DERRY — A local family resource center took top honors Monday night for its successful service to the area.
The Upper Room, a family resource center located on Tsienneto Road, won the Smith Award for Excellence in Service to Families along with a $15,000 cash prize, presented by the New Hampshire Children's Trust Fund.
The award was given at a ceremony held at Red River Theatre in Concord.
The Upper Room was one of three finalists for the top award, joining Claremont's Good Beginnings and Concord's Children's Place and Parent Education Center. A total of 16 organizations were considered for the honor this year.
"These organizations exemplify exceptional service to families," NH Children's Trust Fund executive director Karen Carpenter said. "We are truly fortunate to have them operating in our state."
The Smith Award is given biennially to an exemplary nonprofit family service agency. The award is named for Lou and Lutza Smith, New Hampshire philanthropists with a special interest in families and children. The award can be used for any purpose the winner deems suitable.
Upper Room executive director Kimberly Bavaro said she and the Upper Room staff are very happy to receive the Smith Award.
Citing "tremendous" growth over the last few years, Bavaro said the Upper Room serves 41 percent more families than just five years ago, and are continually making a greater positive impact on the lives of children and families, making for a much stronger community.
"Our ability to survive in challenging economic times while serving the increasing needs of families speaks to the true and selfless team work of everyone involved in the agency — our volunteers, staff, board of directors, community partners, funders, and the families we serve," she said.
Now in its 22nd year, the Upper Room provides prevention and early intervention services to children, youth, and families in Southern New Hampshire. The facility has served 8,873 individuals through direct programs, workshops, and by providing resources and community referrals. Bavaro said the agency works thanks to all who are working hard within its walls, all striving to help participants make healthy choices, develop healthy lifestyles, and gain independence.
"An agency is only as good as the people within it," Bavaro said. "Winning this award is recognition for the amazing people we have as part of The Upper Room family and the incredible work that goes on here everyday I am fortunate to be a part of it."
For information about the Upper Room, contact Bavaro at 437-8477.
