Redmond resident Sukanya Pani recently received the 2009 Molina Healthcare Community Champions award in the Faith-Based Organization category for her work with the Salvation Army.

Pani also received a $1,000 grant to donate to the organization of her choice, which she designated as the Salvation Army Northwest Division. The event was recently held at the Spirit of Washington Convention Center located in Renton.

Raised in India, Pani immigrated to the United States and is now a community advocate for the Salvation Army Domestic Violence programs. The programs promote safety, healing and empowerment. Pani teaches that when an individual lives their life autonomously, or independently, it will lead to a life free from abuse. As a community advocate, Pani provides advocacy-based counseling, case management, crisis intervention, safety planning and referrals to survivors of domestic violence.

“Molina Healthcare is proud to recognize the outstanding individuals and groups who serve our community,” said Glen Bogner, president of Molina Healthcare of Washington. “Community Champions is not only an opportunity for Molina to give back to the community but to say thank you to each recipient for making Seattle a healthier and safer place to live.”

Community Champions was created by Molina Healthcare to recognize the everyday heroes in our midst. The program’s goal is to honor individuals and support agencies that inspire others through selflessness, extraordinary service and contributions that positively affect the health, well-being and lives of those around them. The Community Champions is named in honor of Molina Healthcare’s physician founder, Dr. C. David Molina.

For more information, visit www.molinahealthcare.com.