Bailey resident Brian Vanderzalm has earned a "Hero" award from Michigan Department of Human Services.

Vanderzalm, a social services specialist with the Newaygo County Department of Human Services in White Cloud, was one of 20 department employees from around the state honored for good work, teamwork and providing quality service.

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

"Brian regularly demonstrates excellence in the workplace," said Department of Human Services director Marianne Udow. "He works well with clients, court staff and local agencies to overcome barriers to service for the foster and juvenile children on his caseload. He carries the ball for employees and is the ultimate team player."

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 Fremont Times-Indicator