United Way Honors Caroline Shook as “Outstanding Agency Professional”

Caroline-Shook-with-Jean-PhelpsUnited Way of Porter County has recognized Caroline Shook, Executive Director of Housing Opportunities, as the “2011 Outstanding Agency Professional”. This award, which includes a $500 stipend for continuing education, was announced at United Way’s Annual Campaign Celebration and honors a health and human service agency professional who demonstrates extraordinary care and concern.

Shook began her work in 2000 when Housing Opportunities was part of Opportunity Enterprises. In 2008, the organization split, and Housing Opportunities became a HUD approved housing agency serving individuals and families living in a 6-county area in Northwest Indiana. Each month the organization serves 2,000 families and includes temporary and permanent housing for first-time home buyers to those facing foreclosure. Currently, they manage 122 housing units.

Housing Opportunities has overcome many obstacles to keep the doors open and provide services for the people in our community who need assistance,” stated Sharon A. Kish, President of United Way of Porter County. “Caroline has played an integral role in helping make this happen. Combined with her expertise in social work and business administration, Caroline’s leadership has been exemplary.”

unitedway_portercountyIn addition to her work at Housing Opportunities, Shook also serves as chair of the Porter County Coalition for Affordable Housing which has embarked on the challenge to end homelessness in Porter County within 10 years.

United Way of Porter County improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of the Porter County community through financial and volunteer resource development. For more information, visit www.unitedwaypc.org.

Photo: Caroline Shook (L), Executive Director of Housing Opportunities, was recently honored as the “2011 Outstanding Agency Professional” by United Way of Porter County’s Board President, Jean Phelps.