Maple City resident Ronald Kramer has earned a "Hero" award from Michigan Department of Human Services.

Kramer, an adult services worker with the Benzie County Department of Human Services in Beulah, was one of 20 department employees from around the state honored for good work, teamwork and providing quality service.

Kramer was awarded the agency director's "Hero" award during a ceremony June 7 in Lansing. He has worked for the DHS for 10 years.

"Ron is the epitome of tirelessness and extra effort," said Department of Human Services director Marianne Udow. "He spends a great deal of his personal time on his caseload, is always willing to lend his knowledge to other staff, and works with the community to develop resources for clients."

The Hero award is part of the Department of Human Services Employee Recognition Program started by the department in 2004. Award winners were nominated by DHS employees and were selected for their leadership in the community, demonstrated excellence at work, and extraordinary service to families.

With more than 100 offices around the state, Michigan Department of Human Services is the state's public assistance, child and adult welfare agency.

The department administers the federal TANF grant and Food Stamp Program (called Food Assistance in Michigan) and administers child and adult welfare programs including protective services, adoption and foster care. DHS staff also perform eligibility and case management for Medicaid and related medical assistance programs.

Special to the Traverse City Record Eagle