ST. LUCIE WEST — On June 23, the Hampton Inn-St. Lucie West, was proud to host the CASTLE’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration. Fifty guests filled the lobby of the hotel that had been decorated for the occasion with a lively tropical theme. Hotel Manager Karyn Donovan and Sales Manager Francesca Tyler offered their assistance to make sure this event was a huge success, much to the gratitude of the CASTLE staff.

“CASTLE volunteers are of the utmost importance to a non profit like CASTLE,” said Executive Director Theresa Garbarino May. “We could never accomplish all that needs to be done in the areas of event planning and day-to-day office and facility needs.

"So much of what we accomplish is due to the selfless acts of these wonderful individuals. Our volunteers mean the world to us and we appreciate each and every one of them.”

Twelve special volunteers were chosen for this year’s “Blue Ribbon Awards.” The award title was chosen because of the CASTLE’s blue-ribbon symbol, representing Child Abuse Prevention.

Development Director Chris Robertson said, “It is so difficult to choose just 12 volunteers to honor in this special way. There are so many deserving individuals who pour their heart and soul into helping CASTLE throughout the year.

"We are grateful that so many in our community see the need and answer the call to give of their time, talents and resources to assist us in reaching our goals.”

This year’s recipients included the following: Blue Ribbon Youth Achievement Award – Alex Hartley, C.J. Robertson and Justin May; Blue Ribbon Senior Achievement Award – Virginia Going and Bernie Steinberg; Blue Ribbon Rising Star Award – Angel Robertson; Blue Ribbon Outstanding Service Award – Eva Campbell of Eva C Photography; Blue Ribbon Humanitarian Award – Golden Corral of Fort Pierce and Silver Platter Entrees; Blue Ribbon Community Organization Award – Professional Firefighters and Paramedics of St. Lucie County; Blue Ribbon Corporate Award – Budget Graphics and Rave Motion Picture Theatre; and the Blue Ribbon Believe in the Children Award went to New York/St. Lucie Mets.

CASTLE’s Governing Board President Bob Baldassari conveyed the sentiments of the entire CASTLE staff as well as the board of directors when he said, “It touches my heart to know that all of you do so much, to make such a big difference, in the lives of so many.”

Several board of directors were also on hand to express their appreciation and gratitude to CASTLE volunteers.

Garbarino-May concluded with, “This volunteer recognition event is a small token of our appreciation to the many who faithfully serve side by side with our staff to achieve all kinds of tasks, small and large. We are so thankful for each and every one of them.”

For more information about CASTLE visit www. Castletc.org or contact Chris Robertson at 772-465-6011, Ext. 238 or crobertson@castletc.org

CASTLE is a Florida Non-Profit child abuse prevention organization whose mission is to improve the quality of family life and prevent child abuse and neglect by providing community education, support and resources for parents in need of assistance.

CASTLE offices are located in St. Lucie County, 772-465-601; Martin County, 772-781-4510; Indian River County, 772-567-5700; and Okeechobee County, 863-467-7771.