2017 Project Harmony Kids First Award Winners Announced

At its annual luncheon, Project Harmony (www.projectharmony.com) presented three awards honoring child advocates whose work has improved the lives of children within our community. These diverse activists have spoken up for children – they have put kids first.

The Kids First Award was established by Project Harmony to honor and recognize an individual or group who have made significant contributions to the well-being of abused and neglected children and/or children at risk for abuse or neglect. The following were honored:

Sgt. Marlene Novotny-Project Harmony

Sgt. Marlene Novotny

Sgt. Marlene Novotny – When it comes to collaboration, no one understands the importance more. She collaborates to keep domestic violence victims and their children safe, she collaborates to hold offenders accountable, she collaborates on training other professionals to have a trauma informed response and she collaborates in looking at our system response and figuring out how to make it better for all involved, including children. Sgt. Novotny’s experience and knowledge of child abuse from her time with the Child Victim Sexual Assault Unit has increased the law enforcement response to children and collaboration on these cases with other agency partners. Considering her caseload and how hard she works, she never questions the need to work together and share information.

Molly Keane-Project Harmony

Molly Keane

Molly Keane – Several years ago the Douglas County Attorney’s Office started a child abuse unit in an effort to specialize in child sexual assaults and child abuse cases and collaborate with other agencies more effectively. Molly has taken on a leadership role in this unit since its inception and the results have been tremendous. Her experience, dedication and organization provide the consistency needed in charging and trying these very difficult cases. She is never afraid to proceed on a tough case in an effort to protect children. Molly has also been active in proposing legislation for the betterment of protecting all kids.

Tom Incontro-Project Harmony

Tom Incontro

Tom Incontro – In his role as Guardian Ad Litem, Tom has been a steadfast advocate for the best interests of the children he serves. While assuring that the needs of children are met, he is willing and dependable in his collaboration with other providers to assure all parties have a complete understanding of the case. Skillfully patient, Tom has a great ability to build rapport with the children leading to the best outcomes. Tom is to be commended for his tireless efforts and dedication to helping kids in need.