By Troy Hartpence
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints honors humanitarian efforts.
The Annual "Charity Never Faileth" Humanitarian Award was awarded to Deb Ferrin on Aug. 20 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
By Troy Hartpence
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints honors humanitarian efforts.
The Annual "Charity Never Faileth" Humanitarian Award was awarded to Deb Ferrin on Aug. 20 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Ferrin, currently a Child Development professor at Cuyamaca College, has been a children's advocate for many years. She has directed many Head Start Programs. She also served as the Child Care Coordinator for the City of San Diego and was instrumental in designing over 30 childcare centers including Children's Hospital, Scripps and Kiddie Hall.
Nominated by Carrie Collins, she picked Ferrin for her service to refugees in the local community, particularly refugee children.
"She has fed refugees, clothed them, helped them find jobs, given rides, helped them apply to colleges and so much more," Collins said. "She has given generously of her time, given financial and emotional support and has become extended family to so many."
Ferrin enjoys building friendships with new American families, "You get to watch the joy of witnessing 'the firsts'. Like when you take children on an escalator for the very first time and they want to do it over and over again."
Santee Stake President Randall Schimpf presented a statue and certificate to Ferrin at a dinner awards presentation.
Also in attendance was Ferrin's family, the Vice President of Instruction at Cuyamaca College, Pat Setzer, as well as some of her refugee "children."
"When I first found out about the award, I didn't want to receive any acknowledgement because I didn't do anything special," Ferrin said. "But, then I looked at the whole picture and realized people might learn and help. Since the presentation, many LDS families have offered donations of gift cards, clothing, food and furniture. It suddenly felt like I had an army helping," said Ferrin.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Lejita Voloder, Program Manager for Refugee Resettlement Services on Mission Gorge Place.
