Several honored at Venango County Human Services dinner

Bill Hoobler, John and Lori Horn, Heidi Boitnott and Molly Gavin (from left) received awards Wednesday at the annual Venango County Human Services dinner. Gavin accepted an award that was presented posthumously to her late mother, Mary Jeanne Gavin. (By Kara O’Neil)

Several people were honored Wednesday evening at the annual Venango County Human Services dinner at Forever Farms in Franklin.

The honorees included Oliver J. Lobaugh, who retired last month as Venango County president judge; and Mary Jeanne Gavin, who was recognized posthumously for her work for 20 years at Community Services of Venango County until she passed away in November.

Lobaugh was presented with a lifetime achievement award and was recognized as an outgoing member of the county’s Human Services advisory board.

He was first elected a Venango County judge in 1997, and he was sworn in as president judge at the start of his second 10-year term in January 2008. He served in that capacity until his official retirement April 3.

Gavin’s daughter, Molly, attended the dinner and received her mother’s lifetime achievement award.

Mary Jeanne Gavin spent her last six and a half years at Community Services as executive director. Her many endeavors over the years with the agency included organizing the annual Friends for Food distribution.

Six volunteers and professionals who have excelled in human services were also honored Wednesday.

They are:

Outstanding Family — John and Lori Horn

Outstanding Volunteer — Bill Hoobler

Outstanding Provider — Haley Bell

Outstanding Community Partner — Heidi Boitnott

The ASPEN Award — Deb Francis

About 115 people attended the dinner. Ray Feroz was the master of ceremonies, and Roy Miller was the guest speaker.