Denton, Md. ( February 7, 2012) The Caroline County Department of Social Services kicked off its 2012 Community Outreach efforts with the First Annual Gingerbread House competition. The Caroline Department of Social Services recognizes and celebrates its community partnerships that support the agency’s work in the community. The department strives to protect the vulnerable and provides resources and opportunities that promote self determination, safety and independence. It is through connections and collaborations within the community that the citizens are served. This project was designed and developed to recognize some of these partnerships.
This year’s theme was “Celebrating our Community Partnerships.” Each program unit at the department was issued a challenge to design and construct a gingerbread house representing one of their valued community partner. All of the units were given construction materials including: Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, marshmallow fluff, sprinkles, peppermints and instructions. They were told that they could add whatever they needed to complete their projects.
The entries were assembled during a recent Quarterly Staff Meeting to create the Caroline County Village. Several local officials were invited to participate as guest judges. Units were awarded 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes and honorable mentions were given to the remaining participants.
The winners of this year’s Gingerbread house competition were: In 1st place, Maryland Energy Assistance Program’s Windmill, celebrating their partnerships with Delmarva Power, Chop tank Electric Coop, Suburban Propane, and Tri Gas and Oil; In 2nd place, was Child Support Enforcement’s entry of the Caroline County Circuit Court and their staff; and in 3rd place submitted by the Foster Care and Adoptions Unit, Caroline County Public Schools. Honorable mentions included: Caroline Counseling Center, North Caroline Clergy Association, Winter Haven, Caroline Co Mental Health and the Health Department, Shore Health and the Retirement community.
If you are interested in further information about any of the programs that the department has to offer, please contact the Speaker’s Bureau or Community Outreach Team at 410 819-4500.
