When Covid-19 struck the region, life for many slowed almost to a halt. Schools and offices closed. Restaurants were restricted to takeout and delivery orders. Sporting events were canceled.

But for many, life kicked into high gear. Essential services became no less essential, and hardworking, dedicated individuals put in extra effort to keep things moving.

That is why, this year, the Puget Sound Business Journal is honoring six essential workers as our Front-line Heroes. When businesses were closing, these individuals stepped up to the challenge.

People still needed to buy groceries and travel from one place to another. When someone called 911 for a health emergency, EMS workers responded. Hospitals needed to be cleaned and sanitized, especially in areas with a Covid-19 exposure. People experiencing homelessness still needed shelter, and child care services were vital for parents who also work in these, and other, essential services.

Our Corporate Citizenship event sponsors presented each honoree with a $1,000 check to thank them for their service.

Dajaun Hill-Rose, Teen Director Smilow Rainier Vista Club

“I’m a social and helpful person…I’m grateful I still had the opportunity to help in some way.”

Dajaun Hill-Rose went to the Boys and Girls Clubs of King County when he was younger and eventually worked his way up to a teen director, a position he has held for three years. He now guides teens in the same ways he was directed. One of Hill-Rose’s family members recently died of Covid-19, and he has other friends and family members who are sick. “One of the biggest challenges for me is that I haven’t been able to see a lot of family members and friends due to Covid. I’m a social and helpful person, but I haven’t been able to help anyone close to me that needs it besides the youth and other staff at work. I’m grateful I still had the opportunity to help in some way,” he said. Hill-Rose has been managing about twice as many teens daily as he typically would. On two separate occasions, people from Hill-Rose’s life visited the club to donate money for people in need. “It motivated me to find my own way to help, and that was staying at the club Monday through Friday from open to close to make sure the youth were safe, learning, having fun and not missing out on key values in life,” he said.