Warsaw Community Schools’ bus drivers were recognized at the BYC annual fundraiser. Photo Provided.
Warsaw Community Schools’ bus drivers were recognized at the BYC annual fundraiser. Photo Provided.
On March 17, Warsaw Community Schools’ (WCS) bus drivers were recognized at the Baker Youth Club (BYC) annual fundraiser.  

BYC honored their daily commitment and hard work by presenting them with the Community Partner Award.   

Several years ago, BYC started acknowledging people that support BYC and impact lives within the community. Recently, the award was renamed in order to honor John Elliott and his influence on BYC for over 25 years, according to a news release from Warsaw Community Schools.

Tracy Furnivall, BYC’s executive director, said, “After the passing of John Elliott in January, BYC wanted to keep his name associated with the organization. His influence on our organization was incredible. We felt that his involvement with BYC, and in this community, needed to be recognized. Naming our ‘Community Partner Award’ after John Elliott was a small way to keep his legacy of community involvement going forward for a long time!”

BYC recognizes that the partnership with the WCS is crucial to their success; the transportation department plays a large role, according to the news release. Transportation is a major reason that children might not attend before or after school programs or other opportunities.  

Tracy said, “The support of our program, from the leadership at WCS and the work and effort by Mark Fick, WCS director of transportation, is critical. Thanks to Mark and his team, they get children to school in the morning and to BYC after school; it’s why we can serve approximately 275 children daily. We are very fortunate for this partnership and want to recognize them for their dedication and efforts!”

Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert said, "WCS is so proud and thankful for the efforts of our transportation department.  Everyday they go above and beyond to serve the kids of our community. Recent years have been challenging for transportation departments across the nation due to lack of drivers. There have been days where everyone from our director to our mechanics have picked up routes to ensure safe and caring delivery of our students. The BYC recognition for this staff is a perfect example of their heart and dedication to our community."

A few of the past Community Partner Award honorees have included Flexaust, Network Partners, Tom Breading, Cindy Katris and Altrussa. These folks have helped by providing meals, volunteering or impacting the lives of our children and their families.