A Hearty ‘High’ Five to Lee’s Summit Social Services Director
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Executive director of Lee’s Summit Social Services since its inception in 1992, Geneva High enjoyed a banner year in 2008. That’s when she received two awards for her selfless service to the community.
In January, High was named Humanitarian of the Year by the city’s Human Relations Commission, which cited how she has “positively touched the lives of thousands of people during their most acute times of need.” She was recognized at the annual Lee’s Summit Martin Luther King Jr. celebration on Jan. 21, and the Missouri House of Representatives passed a resolution in her honor that same month. Then, in September, High received a Citizen of the Year award from the Truman Heartland Community Foundation.
“It really has been humbling. I have a fantastic staff, and if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be recognized. These awards should belong to everyone because everyone helps, everyone does their part,” says High, who runs the operation with three full-time and six part-time staff members and more than 100 volunteers.
Lee’s Summit Social Services is the community’s only emergency-assistance agency, and High was instrumental in getting the not-for-profit organization off the ground.
“We take care of needs that are acute, things such as food, utilities, rent and prescriptions,” she explains. “We also do small home repairs for senior citizens to make it possible for them to stay in their homes longer.”
Social Services receives funds from United Way and from the city as the result of a federal grant, but most of its money is donated by citizens and businesses in the community. A thrift store selling donated clothing and household items is a moneymaker, too. Social Services sponsors a back-to-school program that provides needy children with new shoes, jeans, T-shirts, underwear and socks, as well as a backpack full of supplies. The organization also sponsors the Christmas Store, where parents may choose clothing and toys free of charge for their children.
Story by Sharon H. Fitzgerald
