Anthony Fields
Adult Award
Nominated by Jeff Eason at Hope Ministries
Anthony took his first drink at age 14. By his senior year his drinking prevented him from finishing school. He completed his GED and attempted college, but failed due to his alcohol addiction. After years of homelessness, in 2007 Anthony sought help through Hope Ministries. Anthony earned an A.S. at DMACC and his B.S. at A.I.B in May 2013. He lives independently and is employed full time as head cook at Hope Ministries Bethel Mission. Anthony volunteers actively at Hope Ministries, CISS, Salvation Army and Central Iowa Center for Independent Living.
Barbara Mallett
Compelling Life Story Award
Nominated by Britany Cooley at Hawthorn Hill
A domestic violence survivor, Barbara with her daughter, became homeless after she divorced her husband. After some time staying in various places, including the Family Violence Center, Barbara turned to Hawthorn Hill’s supportive housing program, The Home Connection. During the past year she has earned an associates degree from DMACC and is now enrolled at Grand View University with a long-term goal of earning a Master’s Degree. Barbara has opened her home to her nephew, and is engaged with her community in many roles.
Glenda Brown
Veteran Award
Nominated by Harper Levy at the Veterans’ Administration
Glenda Brown is a Des Moines native, Army veteran, and single mother of two. After medical issues rendered her unable to maintain full-time work, Glenda and her family faced eviction and homelessness. She then enrolled in the Veterans’ Administration homeless services program, and has worked hard to rebuild the lives of her family members. She has been a full-time employee at Wells Fargo for approximately one year, where she has recently been promoted. Glenda also is attending DMACC and has participated in several volunteer activities, including Habitat for Humanity.
Lauri Auxier
Family Award
Nominated by Shelby Ridley at Primary Health Care
After fleeing a situation of domestic violence, with and without her kids, Lauri was homeless for many years. Eventually, reunited with her kids, she entered and completed the House of Mercy program and went on to permanent housing. Lauri has returned to work at House of Mercy to help other women through the journey of recovery. Lauri serves now as an advocate for women who are facing the challenges that she faced by serving on organizational boards and speaking to those in a position to bring about change.
Christina Rogers
Youth Award
Nominated by Kate Polush at IHYC – Lighthouse
Christina Rogers provides a model of perseverance and personal responsibility. After aging out of foster care, and finding that neither her foster nor birth mom could help her, she turned to Hope Ministries then to IHYC for help. Since then, with help from the Freestore, Section 8 housing and other programs she has found employment, a stable apartment, and childcare support for her son and daughter. She has consistently paid all bills and accumulated savings. She is working with Aftercare support for youth who have aged out of foster care to further progress in her efforts to achieve sustainable independence.