Since 1982, Akron Area Interfaith Council (AAIC) has presented an award plaque at its annual dinner. This year, at its Spring Dinner on April 12, it honors Jewish Family Service (JFS) with the 2016 Interfaith Award.

AAIC uses three criteria in choosing award recipients. It is given primarily to non-profits; the organization must have been an agency for at least five years; and the organization must exemplify an interfaith spirit, meaning all people are served without question of religion. Members of the Interfaith Council nominate possible recipients, and one is chosen from a short list based on their success in meeting the criteria. Just a few past recipients include: Akron Community Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, International Institute of Akron; Project LEARN; and Family Promise.

“JFS is humbled and honored to receive such a distinguished award,” says Gizelle Jones, JFS Executive Director. “The award reflects the integrity and commitment my staff has in service to seniors and their families. Their hard work reflects our vision of ‘Paving the way for everyone to live with dignity, security, and hope.’ I am proud to be a part of an agency striving to improve the lives of others.”

The AAIC Spring Dinner and Awards Ceremony will be Tuesday, April 12 from 6:30-8:30 pm. It will be held at The Bath Church, UCC, 3980 West Bath Road.

The evening will also include performances by the AAIC Harmony Chorus and Nepali-Bhutanese Dancers, and a presentation by featured speaker Ming-Hao Shiao, Director of Education and Employment Services of the International Institute of Akron.