McMillan resident Tory Richards has earned a "Hero" award from Michigan Department of Human Services.

Richards, an information technology technician with the Chippewa and Luce County Department of Human Services, was one of 20 department employees from around the state honored for good work, teamwork and providing quality service.

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

"Tory is a leader and problem solver whose No. 1 priority is customer service," said Department of Human Services director Marianne Udow. "She provides a high level of support to all staff that enables them to do their job. Tory also maintains a leadership role in community technology initiatives including the UPLink Telecommunications initiative that addresses broadband coverage in the Upper Peninsula."

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 Newberry News