A Kenosha County social worker was honored Thursday for her work supporting youth, often in difficult situations.
Cheyenne Richards was the recipient of Hillcrest School’s 2026 Courage to Care Award, an honor she received during the school’s awards and commencement ceremony.
Richards works as a case manager in the county Division of Children and Family Services’ Youth Justice Services Unit. In that role, she has spent four years as the DCFS liaison to Hillcrest, a Kenosha Unified school that offers programs for middle and high school students who have experienced difficulties in traditional settings.
“Being the recipient of the Courage to Care Award is an honor and wouldn’t be possible without the great collaboration Hillcrest has with DCFS,” Richards said. “I enjoy being a part of a community where we can support young people in their education and provide them with important life skills to better their future.”
Melissa Buchkowski, a Hillcrest social worker, said Richards has a special ability to connect with everyone she meets, with a welcoming attitude and caring nature that immediately puts others at ease.
Richards, Buchkowski added, has built strong relationships in helping others succeed, approaching every situation with understanding and always making people feel valued and respected.
“Cheyenne consistently goes above and beyond in her work with students, families, and the community,” Buchkowski said. “She is someone who’s always willing to go the extra mile to ensure others feel supported, heard, and cared for. Her dedication to generally help others is evident in every interaction she has within our building and our community.”
Buchkowski said Richards’ willingness to support others, to advocate for families, and provide encouragement during difficult times embodies what the Courage to Care Award represents.
Pamela Condos, director of the county Division of Children and Family Services, also praised Richards for her work.
“In recognition of her exceptional dedication, we celebrate Cheyenne Richards in receiving the Courage to Care Award,” Condos said. “Her knowledge of positive youth development and the support she provides to the youth and staff at Hillcrest School set a standard of excellence and make a lasting difference in the lives of youth.”
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Kenosha County
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