Engage Douglas County announces recipients of 2023 ‘Engaged in Action’ award

photo by: Engage Douglas County

Baldwin City High School student Nora Prather, left, and Wendy Conover, the communications coordinator for University of Kansas Libraries, right, are recipients of Engage Douglas County's 2023 “Engaged in Action” award.

A Douglas County coalition focused on reducing substance abuse and promoting mental wellness among youths has announced recipients of an award recognizing individuals and agencies who help advance those goals through active engagement and dedication to serving the community.

Engage Douglas County announced three recipients for its 2023 “Engaged in Action” award Monday — youth recipient Nora Prather, a student at Baldwin City High School; adult recipient Wendy Conover, the communications coordinator for University of Kansas Libraries; and the Center for Supportive Communities, a nonprofit that’s relatively new to Lawrence which uses behavioral science to create equal opportunities and meaningful change.

Prather volunteers with Kansas Suicide Prevention Headquarters’ teen lifeline and has been active in Engage Douglas County’s Youth Empowerment and Prevention program for the past three years. She also gave a presentation to her student body on the topic of “how to help a friend” for Suicide Prevention Month.

Conover previously served as director of the Baldwin City Library, and Engage Douglas County called her a “true champion for youth wellness.” Conover’s program at the library, BCK United, helps young people create projects that spark positive social change and personal growth.

The Center for Supportive Communities is the organization recipient of the 2023 award. The agency operates a prevention program, SupportEd, that serves school-age children throughout the county who spend too much time out of school and would otherwise end up in the juvenile justice system.

The three recipients will be honored at the Engage Douglas County celebration June 21 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Stone Hill Motel, 6101 Rock Chalk Drive. Folks who want to attend the celebration can register here.

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