On April 27, 2014 a group of community members were honored at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Portage for their work developing positive attributes in youth.

The distinguished community members were from several municipalities of Columbia County and were nominated by past Asset Builder award winners and community members. They join a prestigious list of 370 past recipients. Detective Lieutenant Roger Brandner of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department served as master of ceremonies for the event. 

All winners were chosen because of their role in providing programs or activities that relate to the 40 Developmental Assets.  Developmental asset communities and individuals create an environment where youth are valued, can thrive and avoid “at risk” behaviors. Once people have committed to creating a healthy community for children and adolescents, many other issues and needs come into focus.