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| Photo: Steuben County Youth Bureau Coordinator Bill Caudill, Kayes, Muller Photo credit: Donna Evingham |
BATH -- A woman with 27 years of experience working in the field of social services and child protection was honored Monday by the Steuben County Legislature and her colleagues with the 2017 Steuben County Prevention of Child Abuse Award.
Edna Kayes, the county Department of Social Services assistant director, was selected from a field of nominees by the county Child Abuse Prevention Task Force. "Her history, her experience and her knowledge assure children’s safety in out county like no other," said county DSS Commissioner Kathryn Muller. "She is diligent, persistent, and has a vast knowledge of the child protective laws and regulations. A child protective caseworker for 22 years, Kayes now oversees the department’s child protective and preventive units, managing the highest risk populations in the county, estimated at around 2,000. A noted authority in the state on child abuse, Kayes teaches and mentors the department’s supervisors and caseworkers, and sets high standards for their performance, Muller said. Kayes also participates in many child- and family-related community activities during her non-work hours, in both Steuben and Allegany counties, Muller told legislators. "She is a strong asset to the department and displays her genuine love and respect for children and their families," Muller said. "Her work ethic is second to none. And among her many gifts are her selfless nature and humility."
