Two Lawrence Presbyterian Manor residents spent decades helping those who are recovering from addiction. Now they’ve been rewarded for their work and dedication.

Dean and Judy Bevan received DCCCA’s Bruce Beale award. The organization, based in Lawrence, provides substance abuse treatment and mental health services across Kansas. The award is in honor of DCCCA’s first CEO who served for 38 years. Beale passed away this year and this is the first time the award is presented as part of the organization’s 50th anniversary.

Judy and Dean Bevan at the DCCCA award ceremony on September 26, 2024

“Dean and Judy Bevan have dedicated a significant portion of their adult lives to the recovery community,” said Lori Alvarado, CEO of DCCCA. “They have offered hope to countless of clients, walking beside them and supporting them in their recovery journey.”

Dean Bevan, Ph.D. joined DCCCA’s board of directors in 1975 and remained there for 40 years. He helped guide the agency through its expansion from dealing only with alcoholism to other drugs as well as other behavioral health issues. He served as president of the board for several years and helped oversee the planning and construction of the organization’s current headquarters at 23rd and Kasold in Lawrence.

Judy Bevan served on the board of directors of First Step for Women, establishing a recovery house that was unique in allowing and encouraging women to bring their children with them to the house. First Step was eventually added to DCCCA’s services and is now called First Step at DCCCA, which also provides transitional housing for women after they complete the program so they can learn to live independently.

The couple says they still communicate with the men and women they helped over the years, receiving phone calls and letters from all over the world.
“DCCCA has benefitted from the leadership provided by Dean and Judy,” says Alvarado. “Their generous gift of time and resources for more than four decades has left a lasting impact on so many lives.”

Lawrence Presbyterian Manor is excited to congratulate Dean and Judy on their well-deserved award.

“We’re so proud of Dean and Judy and all they’ve done to help others,” said Desi Flerlage, executive director. “It’s essential to celebrate our residents’ achievements and honor all they have accomplished throughout their lives.”