Native American Fatherhood and Families Association will honor five people and organizations at its third "Precious Gems" Awards Banquet.

NAFFA is a nonprofit “that believes in the importance of strengthening, uniting and keeping families together,” a release stated.

“We rely on the good people of the community around us to help in this campaign to change lives.”

Those chosen for the award are:

The Palo Verde Republican Women’s Club in Scottsdale will be honored with the Rose Quartz award, which represents love for self and others.

Maria Johnson, chief crisis officer for the Pinal and Maricopa counties, will be honored with the Rhodonite gem, representing new beginnings, friendships and compassion for others.

Thomas Intrieri will be honored with the Agate gem, which is believed to protect children and calm the body and mind. 

Kaaren-Lyn Graves, executive director of NABEDC, will be honored with the Malachite gem, which represents a sense of increased loyalty and fidelity as well as being true to a cause of choice.

Julie Spilsbury, a member of the Mesa City Council, will be honored with the Turquoise gem, noted for bringing good health and luck.

This “Precious Gem” Awards Banquet will be at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 7, starting with a silent auction at the Double Tree By Hilton, Phoenix/Mesa Hotel, 1011 W. Holmes Ave. in Mesa.

The event includes a dinner, presentation of the “Precious Gem” awards and live entertainment by the Kilali’s Polynesian Revue.

Tickets for the banquet can be purchased online at https://www.nativeamericanfathers.org/2023preciousgem or by calling Valerie Hollobaugh at NAFFA at 480-833-5007.

Proceeds from the banquet and silent auction will go to the Restoring Family Unity programs.