On June 10, representatives from Palm Beach County Youth Services Department's Highridge Family Center attended the Safety Council of Palm Beach County, Inc.'s 24th Annual Safety Awards Luncheon at the West Palm Beach Marriott. The award ceremony recognizes dedication and commitment to public safety.

During the conference, The Highridge Family Center Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) received a COVID Outstanding Service Recognition award for the drastic programming changes necessary in order to re-open last summer for in-person services in a safe and ethical manner for youth who needed more intensive support and structure during the pandemic.  The staff designed a summer program that was therapeutic, trauma-informed, and “safe" by following CDC, state, and local guidelines related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The summer IOP staff worked directly with youth all day, every day when most businesses were closed to in-person services," said Dr. Twila Taylor, Residential Treatment and Family Counseling Division director. “I acknowledge, appreciate, and respect their dedication to serving the youth and families of Palm Beach County."

This year, the theme of the luncheon was “Heroes for Safety" and the agenda included opening remarks by Dr. Alina Alonso of the Palm Beach County Health Department, followed by WPEC CBS News Channel 12's morning anchor, Sam Kerrigan raffling off gift cards and baskets. The program wrapped up with both silent and live auctions with the proceeds going to the Safety Council's nonprofit programs.​