'Difference Makers' honored for their work, vision for Lorain County

Editor's Note: this story has been corrected to properly identify Father Damian Ezeani, of MercyHealth. ELYRIA — Members of the community came together Friday to honor a few local leaders at Leadership Lorain County's 22nd annual Difference Makers gala. The black-tie affair at the Lorain County Community College's Spitzer Conference Center honored four individuals and one organization for their work in the county. The invocation to open the event was delivered by Father Damian Ezeani, of MercyHealth, who reminded those in attendance that generosity and community service are their own reward. "One person gives freely, is a call to also continue to be that difference maker who gives freely of our resources, of our time, of our wisdom, of our knowledge, of the things that we can give so that others could become better," Ezeani said. "... When we refresh others, we ourselves are also refreshed in one way or the other." Receiving the Excellence in Leadership Awards were Neighborhood Alliance President and CEO Alicia Foss, Fire Fish Arts Executive Director Joan Perch and the Good Knights of Lorain County organization. "I look at this as a collective achievement," Foss said. "A reflection of the work that we've done together, and the perseverance of those that we are privileged to serve." In her speech, Perch said that her award was not a recognition just of her or her organization's work but of the idea that protecting and empowering the arts is crucial. "This award matters deeply to me because it recognizes something profound: that the arts are essential," she said. "They are not just entertainment. They are work. They are impact. They shape lives, communities and futures. They make a difference." Chase Farris, executive director of Save Our Children of Elyria, achieved the Emerald Award for Inspirational Leadership, signifying his impact and commitment to his community. "It's OK to fail, as long as you fail forward," Farris said. "As leaders we aren't always going to have all of the answers. And that's OK, as long as we keep pushing towards our purpose." Dolores "Dee" Baker, director of civic engagement and outreach for the Lorain County Urban League, received the final award of the evening; the Eric Nord Award for Excellence in Leadership. Baker lives in Lorain and has worked in nonprofit organizations across Ohio and beyond, but all have served as avenues for her to push for equity and the empowerment of underserved communities. "My purpose is to seek positive solutions, my purpose is to inspire change, my purpose is to be fearless and strong, my purpose is to be the author of my own story," Baker said. "My purpose is service. Won't you join me and identify what your purpose is?" Tony Gallo, Lorain County Chamber of Commerce president, delivered a toast prior to the award ceremony, thanking all the recipients for their work. "So let us raise our glasses to those who have been leaders and mentors, who have helped us grow, adapt and shine, and to Miss Dee, Alicia, Joan, Chase and the Good Knights," Gallo said. "May those that have come before and after tonight's honorees continue to pay it forward, nurturing the next generation of dreamers and doers." Contact Owen MacMillan at (440) 329-7123 or omacmillan@chroniclet.com.