Four Mental Health and Recovery Champions Honored at Summit County Trailblazer Awards

The County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADM) Board honored four community leaders at its Trailblazer Awards. The celebration took place Thursday, Oct. 8, at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron. Honorees are recognized for their unwavering commitment to supporting mental health and recovery in Summit County. This year’s recipients include leaders from the courts, treatment providers and community organizations. Darryl Brake Receives Innovation Award Darryl Brake received the Dr. Bob Smith Innovation Award. Brake serves as executive director of the Summit County Community Partnership. The award recognizes individuals who stand out for creativity and innovation in treating and serving people with a substance use disorder. Judge Alison M. Breaux Earns Education Award Judge Alison M. Breaux of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas received the Drs. Fred & Penny Frese Education Award. This honor spotlights people who have made a significant, positive impact by educating others. Their work aims to decrease the stigma that affects people with mental health and substance use disorders. Oriana House Medical Director Receives Hope Award Dr. Garry Thrasher, medical director at Oriana House, received the Sister Ignatia Hope Award. The award honors individuals who show compassion and kindness. Recipients also offer hope that inspires change in others. Carve Your Own Path Founder Recognized for Advocacy Amanda Kostura received the Maggie Carroll Smith Advocacy Award. She is the founder and executive director of Carve Your Own Path. The award recognizes exceptional compassion for people in recovery. It also honors someone who has served as a results-focused agent of change. About the ADM Board The ADM Board is based in Akron and serves Summit County. More information about its work is available at admboard.org.