Northeast News
May 17, 2012

Ella Houston, center, walks down the red carpet to her limousine at Nowlin Hall. Leslie Collins

**Check out Ella Houston’s award video at http://youtu.be/jPdr6P6zh3o**

Phoenix Family Housing considers Ella Houston one of Kansas City’s unsung heroes.

Houston has worked extensively with Nowlin Hall in Northeast by volunteering for the food pantry and organizing the Nowlin Hall’s Spirit of Hope Choir, among other activities.

In addition, she’s helped out with the Women of Worship women’s support group, Angels of Mercy Recovery House Inc., the drug and alcohol addition rehabilitation center with the Salvation Army and other community-wide activities.

“She’s just an all-around amazing, caring person,” said Laurel Groh, development manager with Phoenix Family Housing. “When you’re around her, she’s one of those people who raises you up.”

Houston also puts others before herself, Groh added.

During the Phoenix Family Housing’s 9th Annual Night with the Stars May 10, Houston was awarded the Clifton R. Cohn Community Leader Award. Only three other residents received a similar award.

Houston rode in style to the event at Crown Center Exhibit Hall, complete with a red carpet and limousine send-off from Nowlin Hall.

Ella Houston waves at the crowd before sliding into the limousine. Leslie Collins
A glimpse inside the limo. Ella Houston, back-center, is surrounded by family and friends. Leslie Collins