Becky Butler, a longtime employee of Connie Maxwell Children’s Home, was presented the Palmetto Association for Children and Families Distinguished Service Award during the association’s 2018 annual conference Feb. 28 in Myrtle Beach.

“Becky is truly a woman of inspiration — from her early days advocating for the rights and best interests of children, through her nearly four decades of service to children and families in South Carolina,” said Connie Maxwell’s vice president for programs, Tim Duncan, in a letter to the nominating committee.

Butler began her career at Connie Maxwell as director of the Pee Dee Shelter in Florence, eventually being named campus administrator. She has been employed at Connie Maxwell for nearly 40 years and currently serves the director of training for all campus locations.

Duncan described how, in her various roles, Butler has remained on the cutting edge of research and best practices while always remaining focused on her clients’ physical and spiritual needs.

“Throughout Becky’s career, she has been a foundation of caring and nurturing for hundreds of children in need,” said Duncan.

Butler said she was shocked after learning the news that she would receive this award — especially knowing some of the past award recipients included former Connie Maxwell president Ben Davis and long-time former employee Jack Cauley.

“I know many of the past recipients, and could not imagine my being counted as one of those giants of child welfare,” Butler said. “I am very humbled.”

Connie Maxwell president Danny Nicholson added, “I congratulate Becky on this well-deserved honor. Her example of service, love and compassion has been beautifully illustrated in the way she has sacrificially served children and families in our ministry for so many years.”

— Julie Miner is director of communications at Connie Maxwell Children’s Home.