Elaine Irons, a direct service professional at The Arc of Howard County, has earned the prestigious Amanda and Jill Dean Direct Service Professional Award. Irons will be honored at the Community Foundation of Howard County’s Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy on December 10 at Turf Valley Resort.
The Amanda and Jill Dean Direct Service Professional Award was established to honor exceptional employees in the direct service professional field who have made a significant impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. This award is presented annually and includes a $1,000 cash gift as a token of appreciation for the outstanding dedication and commitment demonstrated by the recipient.
Irons is a shining example of dedication and compassion in the Direct Support field, and her work has profoundly impacted those she serves. She goes above and beyond to understand the person’s goals by attending planning meetings, advocating for their safety and providing thoughtful, personalized support.
“Congratulations to Elaine on this well-deserved recognition,” stated Katie Collins-Ihrke, Executive Director of The Arc of Howard County. “Her commitment to enhancing the lives of others is truly inspiring, and we are proud to have her as part of our team at The Arc.”
The award, created by Richard and Carol Dean in honor of their daughters Amanda and Jill, has been an annual tradition at The Arc of Howard County for close to a decade. In 2022, Richard and Carol sought to set up a permanent endowment for the award at the Community Foundation to keep this important recognition ongoing in perpetuity.
Amanda & Jill Dean Direct Service Professional Award History
2024: Elaine Irons
2023: Josephine Bangura (pictured below)
2022: Nikia Tucker
2021: Phelisa Smith-Huff
2020: Annie Caldwell
2019: Joe Collins
2018: Robert Kress
2017: Rose Ofori-Amato
