Debra Gingerich, director of marketing and member of the executive leadership team of JMX Brands, presented the Service Award during the company’s annual awards ceremony to Julie Howie, shipping coordinator, who joined the company in October 2020.

JMX Brands, the leading retailer of Amish furniture at dutchcrafters.com, is committed to recognizing and rewarding service within the company and out in the community.

“The Service Award represents our company’s core values including giving, authenticity and sustainability,” Gingerich said.

The Service Award recipient receives $250 given in their name to the charity of their choice and is gifted a paper weight imprinted with “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

“Inside JMX, Julie is a member of the employee engagement committee and significant contributor to the work that committee does,” said Gingerich. “She is considered somewhat of a ‘mom’ for her team. Julie provides a listening ear and knows how to turn the conversation positively while validating feelings. She always brings a positive attitude and is always willing to help.”

Outside of JMX, Julie Howie helps local autism groups. She organized a team of JMX Brands staff to participate in a 5K walk to benefit Face Autism, face-autism.org, and she chose that organization to receive the $250 donation in her name.

“Face Autism is a resource for kids and adults with autism, opening doors to activities like sensory friendly movies, sensory friendly Santa, and Easter Egg hunts,” Howie said. “They partnered with Dynasty Dance Clubs to help support the Dynasty Stars, which is a ballroom dance program for kids and adults with special needs. That has to be my favorite!”

“We congratulate and appreciate Julie,” said Gingerich, “for all she does to contribute to JMX Brands and to our community.”