Auberle, a faith-based nonprofit in McKeesport for at-risk children, youth, and families, was awarded the 2018 Aramark Building Community Organizational Leadership Award, in recognition of its excellence in elevating health and well-being across the region. The award is accompanied by a $15,000 grant from Aramark.

Presented by Aramark, a global leader in food, facilities, and uniforms, and the Alliance for Strong Families and Communities, a national strategic action network of social sector organizations, the award honors an exceptional high-impact organization.

The focus of the Aramark Building Community Organizational Leadership Award is to identify an organization that is a true change agent, one that elevates its staff and communities in leadership, manifesting itself in a more equitable approach, sustained community change, and measurable improvement in population health and well-being. The award was announced at the Alliance’s annual Senior Leadership Conference in New Orleans.

“The Alliance is proud to partner with our national corporate partner, Aramark, in honoring Auberle, an organization that embodies the very best of our field and network,” said Susan Dreyfus, Alliance president and CEO. “Auberle has adopted our strategy framework, the Commitments of High-Impact Nonprofits, and this recognition by Aramark is testimony to the transformative power of great leadership, strategic governance, a focus on equity, a culture of partnership and innovation, and, most importantly, a commitment to values-based advocacy.”

“Aramark is proud to recognize Auberle with this award because it puts the spotlight on an organization that is effective, collaborative, and innovative in elevating health and well-being within its community,” said Karen Cutler, vice president of public affairs at Aramark. “Auberle’s ability to successfully bring government, nonprofit and business sector partners, and community members to the table is making a difference for youth and families throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.”

In the presentation, Aramark stated that Auberle demonstrates the transformational benefits of deep community, partner, and staff engagement. To help youth aging out of the foster care system gain stability, build positive relationships, and learn life skills, Auberle has convened more than 80 partners at its one-stop center, the 412 Youth Zone developed with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services. This voluntary program has over 1,100 young people on its roster. The Auberle Employment Institute has over 60 business partners providing pipelines to good-paying careers with Auberle providing 11 national certifications and a wide array of services including a Digital Work Ethic badge to 350 people referred by 40 other agencies. Last year Auberle served nearly 4,000 people in 21 programs.

Aramark and the Alliance released a brief video showcasing Auberle’s work which you can view here: https://www.auberle.org/auberlearamarkaward