BUCYRUS — Mary Jo Carle is helping others find redemption in the midst of pain.
Carle serves as the program coordinator of Together We Hurt, Together We Heal. The Bucyrus-based organization that provides support to families impacted by illicit drug use.
The Bucyrus resident recently received this year’s Crawford County Outstanding Senior Citizen Award. The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging honored Carle and honorees from neighboring counties during a ceremony Wednesday.
“I’m very honored to receive this award. I’m more than humbled,” Carle said during a brief acceptance speech.
“My goal is to help folks in the community who need help, no matter what it is. In helping others, we help ourselves.”
As volunteer program coordinator, Carle has dedicated several years to helping men and women with their recovery housing needs.
Carle has also worked to educate the public about Naloxone, a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids if administered in time. This year alone, she has distributed more than 521 Narcan kits through partnerships with local health initiatives.
In addition to this work, Carle played an instrumental role in founding the Bucyrus Blessing Box, a community food pantry. She is currently working to launch a local chapter of 100 Women Who Care, a group focused on supporting local nonprofits.
“Mary Jo’s dedication, compassion and tireless volunteerism make her an invaluable asset to the Crawford County community,” said Jason Painley, president of the AAA5’s corporate board of trustees.
“Her work in recovery support, community nourishment and opioid overdose prevention demonstrates her profound impact and the hope she instills in those she serves.”
The Crawford County Commissioners presented Carle with a proclamation in her honor, which declared August 7, 2024 “Mary Jo Carle Day.”
Other honorees included Dorothy Michalovich of Butler, Rebecca Plank of Ashland
Other outstanding senior citizens honored Wednesday were Rebecca Plank (Ashland), Dorothy Michalovich (Richland), Lynette Crum (Huron), Joseph and Donna Gutridge (Knox), Gabriel and Denita Vaflor (Marion), Patrick Drouhard (Morrow), Janet Schueler (Seneca) and Rita and Larry Bennett (Wyandot).
Project One-ARC Empowerment Center received the Community Service Award.
State Representative Marilyn John thanked all of the honorees for their contributions on behalf of Ohio’s General Assembly.
“People are watching what you do, all of you that are here serving,” she said. “Whether you know it or not, you are inspiring many others to serve their communities and because of that, we are all blessed.”