PARIS – The Rape Education and Crisis Hotline presented 2008 Make A Difference awards to Terry James and Ginger Rickeman at the annual meeting.

The award is presented to individuals who have committed their time and energy to the prevention of sexual assault and supporting services for those who have been victimized.

James has a background in mental health, social services and law enforcement. He is a trooper with the Maine State Police.

He has consistently been available to present trainings for other law enforcement personnel regarding quality and comprehensive sexual assault investigations. In addition, he has been available to colleagues for consultation and support.

Rickeman has been a REACH board member for five years, served as treasurer and president, and is a pastor in Bethel.

Rickeman persevered on the board during difficult financial times, helping to make certain that REACH maintained a presence in Oxford County and the towns of Harrison and Bridgton, and that services were available to those in need.

She supports the idea that communities must support one another and that this includes publicly working together to end sexual violence in communities.