The Service League of Cherokee County awarded its second annual Heritage of Hope Award to the Honorable Jennifer Davis at their Gala and Benefit which was held on Saturday, January 28, 2023. The Heritage of Hope Award was developed to honor a person who is making significant contributions to children in the Cherokee County community through their time, actions, talents, and dedication.
After receiving nominations from across the county, the Service League chose four finalists to honor at the Gala and Benefit. These four finalists were Josh Bagby, Julie Darnell, Honorable Jennifer Davis, and Michele Prance. All four nominees consistently demonstrate qualities of compassion and service to one organization or a variety of activities that benefit children. They also serve as role models for service to children in need and strive to make Cherokee County a better place. These actions align with the core mission of the Service League of Cherokee County which is passionate about children in need and giving them hope.
Judge Jennifer Davis received two nominations for this award from community members at large. As the Chief Juvenile Court Judge, the Honorable Jennifer Davis works daily to bring stability for children who are in dangerous or unhealthy situations. She started the first Juvenile Drug Treatment Court to intervene with children who abuse drugs and alcohol and is in the process of creating a Family Treatment Court which will work toward substance abuse treatment for families.
While some of Judge Davis’ services to children are public while she is in her black robe, there are many barriers and obstacles she has quietly and privately removed in order for countless children to live happier lives and families to prosper. Her inner circle calls her a “problem solver” for children as she harnesses her support network when a child’s need arises, and she gets to work on behalf of the child. Judge Davis serves on the board of several child focused organizations, including the Cherokee County Educational Foundation.
Heritage of Hope Award Finalists along with winner, Judge Jennifer Davis.
Left to Right: Michelle Prance, Julie Darnell, Jennifer Davis, Josh Bagby
“So much of the work of the Service League is done quietly and behind the scenes to remove barriers for children in our community so they can grow and prosper. It was an honor to present the Heritage of Hope award to a community member who does this every day. The Service League was honored to publicly thank her for her service to children in Cherokee County.” Past-President, and Heritage of Hope Award committee chair, Lori Karnes.
The Gala and Benefit was attended by over 150 guests. The Service League of Cherokee County chooses a local nonprofit organization to benefit from the evening’s proceeds, and the 2023 benefactor is the Children’s Haven of Cherokee County. Believing our most at risk children need advocates, the Service League supports the Children’s Haven and its efforts to support these children. Synovus Bank was the Presenting Sponsor of the event.
The Service League of Cherokee county works directly with the Cherokee County School District and other agencies like DFACS to support children in need by providing housing, utilities, medical and dental needs, eye glasses, and scholarships. During the Gala, current President Amanda Speights shared stories about the League’s impact and how the League works to immediately meet the needs of families in a crisis mode.
Want to support the work of the Service League? Join us for our next fundraising event, the Golfing Fore! The Children golf tournament which will be held on June 16, 2023 at the Fairways of Canton Golf Club.
