A Night for the Angels Among Us
Boots, Applause and Heart: Henderson County Honors Its Guardians of Children
(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy.)
Some evenings speak for themselves.
On Saturday, April 5, the message was clear: Henderson County is full of people who care deeply about protecting children and supporting families. The Henderson County HELP Center and Maggie’s House Child Advocacy Center hosted the annual Boot Out Child Abuse Angels Among Gala -- at The Legacy Center in Athens — a night to honor service, celebrate strength, and support the important work still ahead. Guests in western wear came together not just to celebrate, but to help the programs that are making a real difference for children in crisis.
“This night is about the people who give so much of themselves,” said HELP Center Executive Director Leslie Saunders. “We’re just grateful for the chance to say thank you.”
This year’s Angel's Among Us award recipients were:
Sondra Eddings, founder of the HELP Center.
Jaqlynn Bless, victim coordinator with the Henderson County District Attorney’s Office.
Judge Wade McKinney, recognized for 27 years of public service in county government.
John Glover, longtime Athens ISD band director and administrator.
Also honored was Louie Criner, a CPS investigator named the 2025 Team Member of the Year.
Each of the honorees plays a role in responding when a child is in danger — from the first report to helping them heal. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it changes lives.
While the evening celebrated lives of service, it also reminded everyone that child abuse remains a serious issue in Henderson County. Hundreds of confirmed cases have been reported in recent years, showing how important it is to stay alert, informed and involved.
The HELP Center and Maggie’s House continue leading that work. The HELP Center connects people with services like counseling, support groups and help during a crisis. Maggie’s House brings together law enforcement, CPS, medical staff and counselors to make sure child victims get the care and protection they need.
Money raised from the gala will go directly to those services — making sure children and families aren’t facing these challenges alone.
“This work matters because it’s about protecting children right here in our own backyard,” Saunders said. “We can’t do it alone. That’s why nights like this are so important.”
In the end, it wasn’t just about awards. It was about lifting up the people who keep showing up — and reminding them that they’re not alone either.
