Media Contact:
McHenry County Department of Health
Nick Kubiak, Public Information Officer

McHenry County Department of Health Recognizes Six Community Leaders and Organizations as Public Health Heroes

Honorees selected in recognition of their contributions to health, safety, and well-being in McHenry County, in celebration of MCDH’s 60th anniversary

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL – The McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) is recognizing six community leaders and organizations as Public Health Heroes for their lasting impact on the health, safety, and well-being of McHenry County residents.

The Public Health Hero recognition effort was created to highlight individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, innovation, and dedication have positively impacted public health in McHenry County. Honorees may be recognized for contributions across a wide range of public health areas, including health education and outreach, environmental health, emergency preparedness and response, housing and supportive services, mental health and substance use initiatives, health equity and access to care, and community wellness.

Following a public nomination process, the following organizations and individuals have been selected for recognition:

Home of the Sparrow HOS Program Staff Pictured: Back row (left to right): Lynette Volant, Lindsay Kellner, Peggy O’Donnell, Sarah Roper, Violeta Sanchez, Vesela Nikay, Jayona Sayachack, Katie Hauri, Matthew Kostecki Front row (left to right): Norell Kern, Janeen Fickert	Recognized for providing safe, affordable housing and supportive resources to women, children, and families experiencing homelessness in McHenry County. Under the leadership of Executive Director Matt Kostecki, Home of the Sparrow provided more than 65,000 nights of shelter last fiscal year, helping hundreds of families rebuild stability and safety.
McHenry County Conservation District	Recognized for preserving and restoring more than 25,000 acres of natural land across McHenry County and expanding free public access to outdoor recreation and nature-based wellness opportunities. Through its parks, trails, and conservation efforts, the McHenry County Conservation District supports environmental health, mental wellness, and community well-being.
Suzanne Hoban Executive Director, Family Health Partnership Clinic	Recognized for nearly three decades of leadership improving healthcare access for uninsured residents in McHenry County. Since founding the Family Health Partnership Clinic in 1996, Suzanne Hoban has helped expand access to medical, dental, and mental health services while advancing health equity and reducing barriers to care.
Elizabeth Rios Executive Director, Cultivating Health Ministries	Recognized for advancing chronic disease prevention and health education efforts in McHenry County through culturally responsive community outreach. Through partnerships with local organizations and healthcare providers, Elizabeth Rios has helped expand access to diabetes education, health screenings, and preventive care resources in both English- and Spanish-speaking communities.
Teagan Ferraresi Harm Reduction Educator, Live4Lali	Recognized for providing substance use prevention and harm reduction education throughout McHenry County. Through her work with Live4Lali and community outreach efforts, Teagan Ferraresi has helped educate thousands of residents on fentanyl awareness, communicable disease prevention, and public health safety resources.
Jason Doran Construction Project Manager, Thresholds	Recognized for supporting the development of mental health and homeless resource facilities serving vulnerable residents in McHenry County. Through his leadership and dedication to community-focused construction projects, Jason Doran has helped create safe, welcoming spaces that expand access to critical support services.

A media kit, including headshots and representative images for each honoree, is available here.

Honorees will be recognized during dedicated ceremonies held in partnership with the McHenry County Board of Health throughout MCDH’s 60th anniversary year.

“Public health is strengthened every day through the dedication of community organizations, advocates, educators, and leaders who work to improve the lives of others,” said Melissa Adamson, Public Health Administrator for the McHenry County Department of Health. “These honorees represent the compassion, collaboration, and commitment that help make McHenry County a healthier and stronger community.”

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