10/30/2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 Victim-Witness Dinner and helped make the evening meaningful. We’re grateful for the care and commitment our community continues to show victims, witnesses, children, and families.
Congratulations to this year’s honorees:
• Massillon American Legion, Post 221 - Victims’ Rights Coalition Appreciation Award for outstanding community outreach to families
• Mark Black - Above & Beyond Service Award for exemplary service and advocacy
• Hope Bridge - Above & Beyond Service Award for leadership in developing collaborative practices on behalf of children and families
• Linda Fergason - Kent & Paula Smith Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedicated service to Stark County’s most vulnerable residents
Thank you to keynote speaker Jess Patz, Stark County Commissioner Alan Harold, and Pastor Jay Secrest for sharing your time and words with us.
Thank you to our Victim-Witness Director, Kim Stanley, and her advocates for all the great work they do.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the Victims’ Rights Coalition members, donors, presenters, volunteers, and everyone who supported the dinner. Your partnership helps strengthen the support available to victims and families throughout Stark County.