Center Point, a faith-based mentoring and educational organization based in Gainesville, honored students and community members at their annual Honors Night dinner Tuesday.
The Hollywood-themed dinner honored students like Max Summer from Gainesville High School, who received the Integrity award. "I love when we give that award because it shows a student that shows real integrity," Executive Director David Smith said. "This young man this year certainly exemplifies what integrity is, every way he conducts his life. It's always great to see somebody that young doing something so amazing in a world sometimes where integrity, good character, seems to be not too plentiful."
The Hollywood-themed dinner honored students like Max Summer from Gainesville High School, who received the Integrity award. "I love when we give that award because it shows a student that shows real integrity," Executive Director David Smith said. "This young man this year certainly exemplifies what integrity is, every way he conducts his life. It's always great to see somebody that young doing something so amazing in a world sometimes where integrity, good character, seems to be not too plentiful."
Brenda Ann Jordan, affectionately known as "Mama Jordan" was designated Mentor of the Year, after a touching testimony to her time, effort and passion, written by one of Mama Jordan's mentees, was read.
"I was just moved... I was just touched," said Jordan. "I was glad to be that light to somebody and hopefully many more."
Board member Scott McGarity was also recognized with the Pat Burd Community Commitment Award.
Smith awarded four scholarships, one for each of the four people he said represented Center Point's mission: Avery Niles, Jordan, McGarity, and Donna Smith.
Other students were recognized in leadership and education, as well as awarded scholarships. Community organizations including law enforcement, school systems and non-profits were also recognized for their work furthering Center Point's mission.
Following the awards, state Juvenile Justice Commissioner Niles delivered a keynote. He addressed the students in the audience, encouraging them to have faith, learn from their mistakes and emphasized the importance of education, mentorship and support.
Smith awarded four scholarships, one for each of the four people he said represented Center Point's mission: Avery Niles, Jordan, McGarity, and Donna Smith.
Other students were recognized in leadership and education, as well as awarded scholarships. Community organizations including law enforcement, school systems and non-profits were also recognized for their work furthering Center Point's mission.
Following the awards, state Juvenile Justice Commissioner Niles delivered a keynote. He addressed the students in the audience, encouraging them to have faith, learn from their mistakes and emphasized the importance of education, mentorship and support.
Niles grew up in Gainesville and lived in Melrose. He compared his experiences growing up with the kids he saw going through the juvenile justice system.
"In our system in the state, we have some 21 kids charged with murder. We have some of the worst of the worst. But we have Christ. Anybody can change their lifestyle. They can change their focus. One thing that they can't change is their past. An our young people that are here to day, when you look at your past, let it be, let it be, let it be a step in the right direction for your future."
You can listen to the full speech above.
Center Point has served Gainesville and Hall County students with counseling, religious education and mentoring since 1967 and most recently opened a facility in the Oakwood area.
