Center of Family Love CEO Debbie Espinosa was honored with the Notre Dame Club of Oklahoma City Person of the Year Award at a July 25 banquet.

“This honor is reserved for a person who clearly demonstrates the spirit of Notre Dame,” Mike Milligan, club treasurer, said during the presentation.

“Debbie Espinosa has clearly exemplified [the spirit of Notre Dame] through her outstanding achievements in service and profession,” Mike Milligan, Notre Dame Club treasurer, said during the presentation.

“When Debbie became the CEO of the Center of Family Love, the organization began making tremendous strides in the way it serves adults with disabilities.

“I’ve personally seen how far she has brought the ministry in the time she’s served there, and I know she has plans to continue building on this momentum.”

The award was presented to Espinosa by Notre Dame alumnus and club president, Andrew Kowalski.

“I am so honored to receive this award, but my first instinct is to say that I’m not the one who deserves it,” Espinosa said in her acceptance speech. “It’s easy to be successful when you are surrounded by such an amazing team that strives daily to serve our residents who live with disabilities.

“Really, this award goes to our team, our donors, our volunteers, our community and everyone who sacrifices to give these incredible individuals the life they deserve.”

Espinosa also showed a brief video highlighting the Okarche-based facility and the services it offers.

For nearly 40 years, CFL has provided innovative day programs and residential opportunities that inspire individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities to reach for and achieve their dreams.

The organization has plans to begin the first phase of a $25 million capital campaign later this year that will provide the funds for an expansion of programs, resources and opportunities for its residents and the surrounding communities.