Community Award Recipients 2025
At our recent Y.O.U. Effect Annual Impact showcase, Youth Opportunities Unlimited was proud to recognize outstanding individuals and organizations that exemplify the spirit of Y.O.U.’s mission. These annual awards include the George Voinovich Award, Huntington Community Catalyst Award and the Brenda Stark Award. Here are the 2025 recipients:
George Voinovich Award
Named after Y.O.U.’s founder, the George Voinovich Award celebrates individuals that bring people together to create real solutions in education and workforce development for young people, embodying the late Senator’s spirit of humility and service.
Craig Dorn (President and CEO of Y.O.U.), Kirk Neiswander (Y.O.U. Board Member and Selection Committee Member), Jen Hurd (Winner)
Jen Hurd, Local Market Executive- Cleveland and Wisconsin, Bank of America — One of two Voinovich Award recipients this year is Jen Hurd. As noted by the selection committee, Jen greatly embodies what the award stands for as she works seamlessly across public and private sectors. Like George Voinovich, she “gets things done without seeking the spotlight” and has quietly been behind some of the community’s most impactful and innovative efforts in youth development, education, and workforce readiness.
Kirk Neiswander (Y.O.U. Board Member and Selection Committee Member), Jennie Becker (Winner), Craig Dorn (President and CEO of Y.O.U.)
Jennie Becker, Manager of Experiential Learning, MAGNET — The second Voinovich Award recipient is Jennie Becker. Often an unsung hero working behind the scenes, Jennie has greatly impacted thousands as she introduces Northeast Ohio youth to the exciting possibilities of careers in manufacturing. She is helping to reshape outdated perceptions and spark real interest in the industry. Y.O.U. is proud to partner with Jennie on the Summer Manufacturing Academy, where her creativity and dedication have made a lasting impact.
Huntington Community Catalyst Award
The Huntington Community Catalyst Award recognizes organizations that are true community changemakers, actively working to dismantle systemic barriers especially those affecting youth ages 14–24.
Steve Harmon (Huntington Bank), Jason Lockett Sr. (Winner), Craig Dorn (President and CEO of Y.O.U.)
Breadwinners Academy — Founded in 2022 by Jason Lockett Sr., Breadwinners Academy blends financial literacy with real-world simulations and entrepreneurship training, helping youth not only build skills but discover their voice and vision. Through the Summer Entrepreneur Academy, Jason and his team have helped dozens of youth learn how to budget, build a brand, and even negotiate their first car purchase. Y.O.U. is proud to partner with Breadwinners Academy to help offer empowering, life-changing summer work experiences to young people.
Brenda Stark Award
The Brenda Stark Award is named in honor of a beloved Y.O.U. staff member, Brenda Stark. This award celebrates an exceptional youth development professional who embodies long-term commitment, compassion, and impact.
Janet Mack (Selection Committee Member), Alyse Nevil (Nominator), Tanika Jackson (Winner), Valerie Hickey (Y.O.U. Staff Member and Selection Committee Member)
Tanika Jackson, Dream On Coordinator and Lead Facilitator, Effective Leadership Academy — Tanika Jackson has worked in the youth development space for nearly two decades. She brings experience in trauma-informed care, therapy, and youth mental health support. Through Tanika’s mentorship, the participants in the Dream On program have improved their ability to self-advocate and practice leadership skills. Tanika strongly promotes inclusivity and resilience, helping thousands of young people grow more confident and capable each year.