Brookland Heartbeat editor Abigail Padou was recognized by The 100 Fathers, Inc. for achievement in journalism.

Franklyn Malone, president and CEO of The 100 Fathers, credited Brookland Heartbeat with “responsible journalism that touches on the heart of community issues in a straightforward and balanced way.”

Mr. Malone emphasized the importance of journalism in “highlighting issues that need attention and resolution and investment of resources toward meeting unmet needs especially for youth, fathers and families in the Ward 5, Brookland, and Woodridge areas.”

The award was presented at a Father’s Day Brunch on June 14th sponsored by The 100 Fathers Inc. and the Brotherhood of St. Andrew.

Mason Clark, founder of the Woodridge Warriors Youth Organization, received the Community award.

Mr. Malone praised Mr. Clark for 45 continuous years of community leadership and service. Mr. Malone said Mr. Clark had served an “untold number of young people over the years,” through sports and tutoring programs.

Benjamin Moffett received the Responsibility award. In a moving speech, Mr. Moffett described his troubled past and subsequent transformation into a man of responsibility who is deeply involved in raising his 18 month old son.

“Don’t let people tell you what you can’t do,” said Mr. Moffett.

Additional awards presented included: the Statesman award for Councilmember Harry Thomas Jr., the Corporate award for Thomas J. Baltimore, and the Youth Engagement award for ANC 5A Commissioner Jhaz Phifer.

The 100 Fathers, Inc. is a local civic organization whose motto is “Ordinary Men Doing Extraordinary Things.”