NYS Justice Center honors Northern Rivers staff with Code of Cond...

The New York State Justice Center is pleased to announce that Ken DeLong, Recreational Specialist for Northern Rivers Family Services, has been selected as a recipient of the Justice Center’s Code of Conduct Award for 2026. 

For 37 years, Ken has dedicated himself to helping young people discover their interests, build confidence, and achieve goals they may not have believed possible. Whether he is organizing a trip to a professional sporting event, museum, horse farm, Radio City Music Hall, or LegoLand, DeLong tailors experiences to the interests, abilities and aspirations of the young people he supports. His goal is not simply to provide recreation, but to help each young person explore their passions and envision what is possible for their future. 

“Ken exemplifies the very best of the values reflected in the Justice Center’s Code of Conduct,” said Justice Center Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray. “His dedication to ensuring all youth in his care feel safe, respected, and truly heard is unmatched. We are honored to recognize Ken’s extraordinary contributions at Northern Rivers and acknowledge his tenured career in youth service.” 

Those honored with a Code of Conduct Award truly embody the Justice Center’s founding principles and standards outlined in the Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs. The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to ensure people enrolled in programs under Justice Center jurisdiction receive support in a manner that prioritizes their dignity, safety, and rights.  

Colleagues describe Ken as someone whose commitment to the safety and dignity of youth is unwavering. He has earned the trust of the residential team through his extensive knowledge of policies and procedures, sound judgment, and ability to make thoughtful decisions in challenging moments. 

“For 37 years, Ken has brought creativity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the young people we serve,” said William Gettman, CEO of Northern Rivers Family of Services. “He represents the very best of Northern Rivers, and we couldn’t be prouder to see him receive this well-deserved recognition.” 

Awards are compiled by the NYS Justice Center each year. Winners are selected by the Justice Center’s Advisory Council – a group that provides guidance to the Justice Center in the development of policies, programs, and regulations. The council consists of service providers, people who have or are currently receiving services, their family members, and advocates. 

The Justice Center received more than 200 nominations for this year’s program. Five winners have been selected from a dozen finalists. Each submission highlighted the dedicated members of our State’s human services workforce.