United Way release
Aria Ralston, a volunteer for CASA, was honored by United Way of Junction City-Geary County Tuesday as the 2024 Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year recipient.Lisa Hatt, CASA Executive Director, nominated Aria for this year’s recognition.
Lisa shared why she felt that Aria should be recognized as the 2024 Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year. Lisa stated in her application, "Aria has been a dedicated volunteer since 2022, and in that time, she has made an incredible impact on the lives of the children she serves. She goes above and beyond in every case, building deep and meaningful connections with each child to truly understand their needs. Her advocacy has led to numerous successful placements where children have found stability and sense of belonging."
The Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year Award was established to shine the spotlight of gratitude on deserving individuals for their selfless giving through organizations that serve the people of Geary County.
PAST RECIPIENTS:
--2007 – Ben Kitchens
--2008 – Ted Hayden
--2009 – Waverly Graves
--2010 – Otis Scroggins
--2011 – Ellen Westerhaus
--2012 – Robert Munson
--2013 – Doug Vogelsang
--2014 – John Hagerty
--2015 – Betsy Young
--2016 – Paula Hansen
--2017 – Cynthia Cason
--2018 – Hidayah Dansby
--2019 – Margaret Kilpatrick
--2020 – COVID2021 – Jennifer Hoover
--2022 – Naomi Bundley
--2023 – Rosemary Woods
--2024 - ARIA RALSTON (CASA)