Award Application 2007.doc

Touchstone Energy Award Criteria

Sexual Assault Program of Beltrami, Cass and Hubbard Counties wins local Touchstone Energy Community Award

BEMIDJI, Minn. (Dec. 31, 2007) — Beltrami Electric Cooperative has named the Sexual Assault Program of Beltrami, Cass and Hubbard Counties the winner of the local 2007 Touchstone Energy Community Award, announced co-op spokesperson Cindy Gannon. The recognition comes with a $250 cash award donated to a charity of choice and an engraved Touchstone Energy Community Award plaque signifying the organization’s commitment to community. 

“The Sexual Assault Program has clearly demonstrated a strong commitment to our community. We are very pleased to recognize their support for all victims of all levels of sexual assault and the education they offer our community promoting changes in attitudes and behaviors,” said Gannon.

The Sexual Assault Program has championed efforts to raise awareness about gender violence and violence against children. For over 20 years, it has collaborated with Northwoods Coalition for Battered Women and the BSU Women’s Center for the annual “Take Back the Night” march and rally. They continually network with law enforcement, hospitals, human services and other agencies. This networking effort has emerged into the Beltrami County Sexual Assault Protocol Team including representatives from the Sexual Assault Program, Bemidji State University, Bemidji High School, local sex-offender probation officers, Beltrami County Attorney’s office, mental health practitioners, North Country Regional Hospital, Family Advocacy Center, Red Lake Tribal Police, Bemidji City Police and Beltrami County Sheriff’s office.

Staff and volunteer advocates log 300 clients each year allowing 24 hours per day, 365 days per year services. They answer the crisis line, give support to rape victims during evidentiary/medical exams, support at criminal justice proceedings, and one-to-one advocacy. “The good that they do for those that have become victims is immeasurable,” states volunteer, Jayne Hanson promoter of community and public education.

In its fourth year, the Touchstone Energy Community Award recognizes individuals or organizations for outstanding contributions to their community. Past winners include the Healthy Community Healthy Kids, Blackduck Tri Sigma General Federated Women’s Club and the Bemidji Area Task Force on Underage Drinking, Illegal Drug Use and Gang Activity. “This area is blessed with many individuals and groups that are willing to donate time and effort to better our community,” added Gannon. “We are pleased that as a Minnesota Touchstone Energy cooperative, we have this opportunity to recognize those who impact our community in a positive way.”

The organization’s application will be submitted for consideration for the statewide Minnesota Touchstone Energy Community Award. The statewide award recipient will be selected from approximately 20 local award winners throughout Minnesota and the winner will receive $1,000 toward a community cause of choice. The statewide award will be presented in February during the Minnesota Rural Electric Association’s annual meeting in St. Paul.