In a heartfelt gathering at the Annawan Banquet Center on October 24, 2024, approximately 180 supporters of Abilities Plus celebrated a year of significant achievements. The annual awards dinner highlighted the dedication of individuals and organizations in Henry and Stark Counties to assisting those with delays and disabilities. Among the honorees were the Galva Knights of Columbus, receiving the Civic/Community Award, and Morgan Thorp, named Achiever of the Year. The evening also paid tribute to several remarkable contributors posthumously, including Gail Ripka and Linda Bolls, acknowledging their lasting impact on the community.
The 2024 award winners are:
Civic/Community Award: Galva Knights of Columbus
Posthumous Award: Gail Ripka
Volunteer Award (Posthumously): Linda Bolls
Gary German Memorial Award: Derek Neal
Business Award: University of Illinois Extension Galva
Achiever of the Year: Morgan Thorp
Special Recognition Award (Posthumously): Pat Brown and Gary Streitmatter
Special Recognition Award: Amelia Vincent
Director’s Award: Steve Johnson
Second Row: Al Streitmatter, Don Rogers, Derek Neal, Gary German, Steve Johnson and Don Billiet
