BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—During the 99th Annual Chamber Dinner and Recognition Ceremony held on November 13, Mary Jo Carle presented the prestigious Citizen of the Year award to Bucyrus foster mom, Jordan Groves.
In her remarks, Carle emphasized the importance of community pillars, stating, “Every community has a handful of pillars that support growth while maintaining the integrity of the culture and mission. Bucyrus is no exception.” She highlighted that these pillars could be leaders in schools, charitable individuals, or those who privately fund projects benefiting the community. “Regardless of their motivations and designations, they should be recognized for the difference they make each day,” she added.
The Bucyrus Citizen of the Year Award honors an individual who exemplifies the values of the greater Bucyrus area through their contributions. This year’s award recipient, Jordan Groves, has tirelessly worked for the betterment of children in the community. In early 2024, she founded the Crawford County Butterfly Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting foster children in Crawford County.
According to Justen Johnson, who nominated Groves, “She puts in the time and gives all of herself to the foundation and the cause. She truly has the biggest heart of anyone I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and loving.” The foundation’s mission is to assist foster children by providing clothing, necessities, toiletries, and other essential items that many children take for granted. Groves is often seen collecting donated items for children entering the foster system, particularly those placed in emergency situations, ensuring they receive everything from socks to new toys.
As a foster parent herself, Groves understands the unique challenges faced by children in the system. Her mother, Wendy, noted that Jordan has always had a desire to help those in need. Additionally, she shares her journey as a foster parent through her blog, “Fostering From The Heart.”
In addition to her work with the foundation, Jordan Groves is a nail technician at Tonya’s Hair Fashions and runs her own boutique. Despite her busy schedule, her commitment to helping others remains unwavering.
As last year’s recipient of the award, Carle expressed her pleasure in recognizing Groves as this year’s Citizen of the Year, celebrating her remarkable dedication to the Bucyrus community and its children.
CCN will feature the Business of the Year next.