Ginny Mulpeter Recognized for Work With 'Focus'

Ginny Mulpeter was a bit reluctant to be recognized for her work, but for years she didn’t shy away from working to educate the town’s young people about the dangers of substance abuse through the organization Focus.

Mulpeter, with fellow board members, created the group Focus in 2006 in response to a horrific drunk-driving accident and worked to establish the group, bringing educational programs into West Woods Upper Elementary School and Farmington High School. She is handing over leadership to Christine Galske and the Town Council recognized her contribution Tuesday night before the Town Council meeting.

Galske, Focus board member Jennifer Hogan and Social Services Director Nancy Parent spoke about Mulpeter’s dedication.

“Under Ginny’s leadership this group has accomplished more than any of us imagined,” Hogan said. “She has created an organization that supports and protects the youth of our town.”

Each of the speakers noted the thousands of young people and families her work has touched.

“Her care and concern for the youth of our town knows no boundaries,” Galske said. She forged relationships with businesses, the police department and schools and other community groups, she said. Galske thanked Mulpeter for the “countless hours of time she’s devoted to the families of Farmington through Focus.”

Town Council member Patty Stoddard read the proclamation, first adding a personal note.

“Every time one of our kids say ‘no’ to a drink, a drug, a ride in a car they shouldn’t get into… every time they think twice and make the right decision, I think that’s because of Ginny,” Stoddard said.

“You’re really the epitome of a public servant,” Chairman Mike Clark said as Mulpeter accepted flowers and hugs from her family and friends. “You’ve made a difference — we don’t want to know how many young people’s lives you’ve probably saved, but thank you.”