Auberle hosts 24th Annual All Star recognition dinner
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by: Pittsburgh Catholic Staff

Friends and clients receive awards for service, accomplishments

Auberle, a faith-based agency in McKeesport dedicated to providing positive outcomes for youth and families, hosted its 24th Annual All Star Banquet at Stratigos Banquet Centre in North Huntington Township on April 20. The theme was “Be a Roaring Success.”

The banquet, sponsored by Dr. Michael Tranovich and Pittsburgh Bone and Joint Surgeons, is held each year to honor the many accomplishments of the youth and families that Auberle serves. The event recognizes special achievements in education, citizenship, sportsmanship and foster care.

The Advocate of the Year Award, sponsored by Bishop David Zubik and the Diocese of Pittsburgh, was awarded to Joseph Hiznay. He has been a longtime friend of Auberle, dedicated to enriching the education of youth and providing teachers with innovative tools and training.

Many friends from the diocese were in attendance to support the award winners, including Deacon Alex Wroblicky, secretary for evangelization and social concerns; and Maureen Lally-Green, director of the Office for Church Relations.

Also in attendance were Jim Wilding and his daughter, Mary Wilding, who is 10 years old and received special recognition for her fund-raising efforts from John Lydon, Auberle’s CEO.

Jim Wilding sponsored Rayna Dubose, a quadriplegic woman who previously gave a motivational speech at Auberle; Mary attended the event and was so inspired by the talk and the youngsters at Auberle that she decided to raise money to acquire gift cards for the children to purchase clothing specifically for the banquet. Her many hours of hard work made a difference in the lives of people in the community.

Kyle Harder, Auberle’s intake coordinator, said, “Nothing is more powerful than seeing their beaming faces as they are recognized for all their hard work. Many of them have never experienced success in their lives and even the smallest achievements can help turn their lives around. It reminds us all why working to empower children and their families is so important.”

Jeanne Taylor, Auberle’s director of strategic planning, added, “It is fun to see how proud the kids are when they are recognized for their accomplishments. It is also nice to see our guests walk away with a positive impression of the kids after having the opportunity to meet and interact with them.”

More than 300 attendees joined in the celebration, and more than 50 awards were presented to the youngsters.

Family preservation, the reuniting of families in a positive home environment and preparing children to be responsible adults are the ultimate goals of Auberle. In 2009, the organization served nearly 2,000 youths and families through 16 different programs that cater to a wide range of at-risk youngsters.