Friends of CASA for Kids and the Chip Henry family have established the Chip Henry Civic Award, to be presented to one deserving high school student and one adult.

Nominations are now being accepted for the award that will honor two people with the values Chip Henry was known for, including character-building relationships and selfless service to others.

A Juvenile Court Judge for more than 19 years, Chip Henry, an active outdoorsman, was hit by a car and killed while bicycling in May, 2011.

Open to all Geauga residents, nominations are by application only and must be submitted by March 1st. Applications are available on this site,  www. and can be emailed to: chiphenrycivicaward@gmail.com or sent via U.S. mail to

The Chip Henry Civic Award,
c/o 470 Center Street, Bldg. 6-C,
Chardon, Ohio 44024.

The annual civic award has been established to honor the role Chip Henry played in the development of responsible youth in Geauga County. A positive role model as public servant, husband, father, and friend, Chip Henry was a man of character and integrity who positively influenced others by taking an active role in their lives.

A highly respected Judge, Chip Henry was a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, a big brother in the Big Brother/Big Sister program, volunteered with Geauga Home Delivered Meals, coached youth and served wherever he could help those in need, whether it was a senior citizen needing windows washed, or a troubled teen searching for advice.

The community of Geauga County was, in essence, Chip's extended family and he made every effort to share his love for people and nature in very positive and memorable ways.

Chip Henry Civic Award winners will be selected by two Board members from Friends of CASA along with Chip’s wife, Linda, son, Adam and daughter, Kim. Award presentations will be at the winner’s high school awards ceremony and at the annual CASA Volunteer Appreciation Night. Both the Henrys and the Friends of CASA Board ask that you spread the word about the new award and nominate people who have helped those in need and who model good character and values. Friends of CASA is the nonprofit fundraising arm for CASA for KIDS of Geauga County, the Juvenile Court program started by Judge Henry in 1997.

A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate who speaks for the best interest of an abused or neglected child involved in the court. Friends of CASA supports these children by raising funds for otherwise unaffordable opportunities such as summer camps, tutors, music lessons and sports activities.

Down load the Award Nomination Form Here.