DOVES honors individuals at Annual Awards Luncheon

CSKT Tribal Officer Don Bell receives Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for 2012 by DOVES (Domestic Violence Education and Services) “for taking a stand against domestic violence.” Officer Bell stated the recognition came as a surprise to him and appreciates the honor. (Lailani Upham photo)

POLSON — In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, DOVES awarded six area individuals for “Taking a Stand Against Domestic Violence” at its Annual Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 10 at the Art Bistro. These awards were a result of nominations from throughout Lake County and the Flathead Reservation for folks and agencies who “go above and beyond” to provide assistance to those who have been affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

Leah Emerson, Director of Nursing at St. Luke Healthcare in Ronan, was presented with the Health Professional of the Year Award.

Two awards were presented to a Criminal Justice Professional of the Year: Polson City Court Clerk Joan Hart received an award, and a second award was given to Bevra Jacobson, who is both the Supervisor of the CSKT Victim Assistance Program and a Prosecutor in the CSKT Legal Department.

Two awards were also presented for the Peace Officer of the Year. Tribal Officer Don Bell and Lake County Sheriff Deputy Ben Woods each received recognition this year.

Sharon Silberman with CSKT’s Victim Assistance Program Domestic Violence Advisory Committee, was selected to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award.

DOVES (Domestic Violence Education & Services) is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit crime victim advocate organization located in Polson. DOVES’ mission is to address and prevent domestic and sexual violence in Lake County and on the Flathead Indian Reservation through community outreach, prevention education and information, and advocacy for victims of violent crime. DOVES offers assistance with Orders of Protection, personal and legal advocacy, women’s and children’s support groups, a Legal Assistance for Victims program for civil issues, and emergency financial assistance. All services are free of charge. For more information, contact Jenifer Blumberg, Executive Director, at 883-3350.