The Mayor of Ocala was honored with a special award by the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services last week to recognize him for his positive impact on young residents and families in the community.
Ben Marciano was awarded The Chairman’s Award at the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services Annual Meeting in Clearwater on September 9.
The award is the highest honor presented by the Florida Network. It is given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and impact in advancing the well-being and future of young people and their families across the state.
“This award acknowledges the individual for their unique contributions to the mission and vision of the organization, that Florida will be a safe place where young people can reach their full potential,” reads a statement from the organization.
In particular, Maricano was recognized for his work with Arnette House, where he has volunteered for years.
Based in Ocala, the Arnette House provides free programs for youth and families in Marion, Lake, Sumter, Citrus, and Hernando Counties, including emergency shelter services for children and teens between the ages of 10 and 17 who are runaways, lock-outs, abandoned, homeless, or truant.
“Ben Marciano has been a blessing to Arnette House and the youth that we serve. We are grateful for his support and thrilled that his selfless dedication to our community is recognized with this prestigious award,” said Cheri Pettitt, Arnette House CEO.
In addition to the mayor, Kristin Bumpus-Hamilton, who serves as Arnette House’s Food Services Coordinator, was awarded the inaugural Youth Advocate Award for her years of dedication to mentoring and advocating for youth on behalf of the organization.
The Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, Inc. is a nonprofit statewide association representing 27 member agencies that serve homeless, runaway, and troubled youth, ages six and older, and their families. For more than 40 years, the Florida Network has provided prevention and early intervention services as a “Children’s and Families in Need of Services” agency, as defined by Florida Statute, in order to prevent juvenile delinquency and encourage good choices and healthy family relationships.
To learn more about the network, visit the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services online. To learn more about our local nonprofit, visit Arnette House online.