Photo submitted to the Times Observer Pictured from the left: Greg LaRocca, 2025 B.E.A.C.O.N. Award recipient and Guy Signor, Journey Health System’s President & CEO.

Beacon Light Behavioral Health System, Beacon Light Adult Residential Services and Journey Health System recently honored staff and supporters.

The program began with an invocation by Father Leo Gallina and a welcome from Joseph Yaros, board chair of Journey Health System. Yaros acknowledged the contributions of the organization’s board members, whose collective 325 years of volunteer service received a round of applause.

Milestone service awards were presented to several board members for their years of unwavering commitment: Kathy Jones – 20 years, Joseph Yaros – 20 years, Joe Haines – five years, and Mary Anne Polucci Sherman – five years.

Gregory LaRocca was presented the 12th annual B.E.A.C.O.N. Award to Gregory LaRocca. The B.E.A.C.O.N. acronym stands for Being an Enthusiastic Advocate for Community and Organizational Needs.

“Greg’s unwavering commitment to governance and leadership, coupled with his passion for service and philanthropy, continues to inspire those around him,” said Guy Signor, president and CEO of Journey Health System.

LaRocca, who has served 16 years in various leadership roles–including current treasurer of the Stairways Behavioral Health Board in Erie and former chair of the Journey Health System Board–has played a role on numerous committees, including finance, development, human resources, and strategic planning.

“As I accept this award, I do so on behalf of all of you,” LaRocca said. “This is a celebration of a collective impact and shared values for changing lives together. I am grateful to be a part of this important work and the Journey Health System family.”

The evening also featured powerful testimonials from those directly impacted by the agencies’ work, including one from a client of the psychiatric rehabilitation program, and a live video call with clients from the Specialized Therapeutic Residence for Intellectual & Developmental Empowerment (STRIDE) program.

Tana Smith, Director of Institutional Advancement at Journey Health System, extended special thanks to HUB International for co-sponsoring the event and praised the continued commitment of the organization’s staff, donors, and volunteers.