Karen Sock awarded YMCA Humanitarian Award

On Thursday night, the Beau Rivage was home to the 15th Annual John R. Blossman YMCA Humanitarian Award and Banquet, which every year honors  an individual who has made a positive impact along the coast.

This years winner was Karen Sock, which for many came as no surprise.

“She’s the kind of person that sees a need and rather than saying somebody needs to do this, she goes out and she does something to make a difference. She’s a beautiful lady inside and out, and a wonderful friend, and is making a difference in our world,” said previous winner of the Humanitarian Award, Becky Montgomery.

One of Karen’s  biggest accomplishments is Pathways 2 Possibilities, an immersive experience designed to showcase possible careers to eighth graders across Mississippi. Additionally, Karen uses her expertise and knowledge as a consultant helping other organizations across South Mississippi to make an impact in their communities.

“Karen is a consultant so she helps other non-profits and agencies grow and develop, whether it’s through strategic planning or diversity and inclusion. She is just a great resource for others to build their efforts to support a better Gulf Coast,” says the CEO of the Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA, Jara Miller.

Karen has made it her life’s goal to give back to those communities around her, and even after winning an award recognizing her work, remained humble, a characteristic which so many people know her for.

“I am excited an elated, I just cant believe it. For all the people that have been recognized before me and to be in this group of people is just very, very much a huge honor and I can’t be more thrilled. Since I arrived here in 2005, I’ve had lots of support. Whenever I struck up an idea, people from the business community , my friends, my neighbors have supported me and I’m deeply grateful,” said award winner, Karen Sock.