JEA Recognizes Agency Employees at Light It Forward Awards

JEA hosted its annual Light It Forward Awards, honoring local human services advocates and JEA employees for their dedication and commitment to serving Jacksonville residents in need.  

JEA Chief Customer Experience Officer Dr. Charles Moreland thanked the attendees for their commitment to serving the community. “The strength of our community is reflected in how we support those who need us most. At JEA, we recognize that meaningful impact extends beyond providing essential services. It requires strong partnerships, a shared commitment to service and a dedication to improving lives. Today, we honor the individuals and organizations whose compassion and leadership are making a lasting difference for Jacksonville families. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.”

Established in 2017, the Light It Forward Awards recognize the behind-the-scenes efforts of local agency representatives who go above and beyond to help JEA customers facing financial hardship. Representatives from more than two dozen community agencies that partner with JEA attended Thursday’s event.

In the past year, JEA customers received more than $4 million from local agencies that manage local and federal 30tility bill assistance. 

The recipients of the 2026 Light It Forward awards are: 

• Light It Forward Award: Catholic Charities Jacksonville | Caseworkers Cedrika Alexander and Charlene Akers 
• Senior Champion Award: Melissa Kicklighter, Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry 
• Power of Partnership Award: Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida  
• Frontline Advocate of the Year Award: Toshiko Moultrie, City Of Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department 
• Guiding Light Award: Dina Monroe, Family Support Services 

JEA also recognized employees who went above and beyond to support seniors through community events and activities hosted at JEA over the past year. The employees recognized were:

• Devon Miller 
• Dee McWilliams 
• Catrina Walker 
• Mercy Castillo 
• Eric Dancy 
• Mauskola Mobley 
• Barbara Waters