Monarch honored more than two dozen of its staff members in seven different categories Oct. 4 during the agency's 2012 annual awards dinner held at Stanly Regional Medical Center.

Based in Albemarle, Monarch provides support statewide to thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance abuse challenges.

The Academy Awards-like evening included food, fun, entertainment, dancing and recognition of honorees, a news release said. The night included guest appearances from "Dancing With the Stars" contestants.

Recipients of the Dream Maker Award, given to express "heartfelt appreciation and deserved recognition for staff who provide the level and quality of service to individuals Monarch supports," included Milton Simmons, developmental specialist, Southern Pines; and Sam Cornog, maintenance journeyman, Southern Pines.

Monarch provides support statewide to thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance abuse challenges in more than 55 North Carolina counties, including Moore County.

Monarch is nationally accredited by the Council on Quality and Leadership and is CABHA certified. It is an affiliate chapter of The Arc of North Carolina and The Arc of the United States.

Anyone needing more information can call (800) 230-7525 or visit the website www.MonarchNC.org.