Joan Keown has worked for the Bowling Green Police Department as a crossing guard at St. Joseph School and Dishman McGinnis Elementary for the past 35 years.

Even though she receives pay for keeping the children safe, it is Keown’s random acts of kindness that go above and beyond the call of duty that make her truly special. Keown’s compassion starts with the children she interacts with daily in her work, but it extends beyond them to their family members. If a child or the child’s family is needy or struggling in some area, she will provide assistance without thinking twice about it, and out of her own pocket. Whether it’s a parent who does not know where or who to turn to for help, or a child struggling emotionally or academically, Keown is always there for them.

She is well known for helping out less fortunate families with food and clothing, and often delivers the items personally.

To further show her belief in giving to her community, Keown serves as a member of the Bowling Green/Warren County Welfare Board and the Dishman McGinnis Family Resource Center. These two organizations provide Keown with numerous opportunities to help those in need with food, clothing, medications and shelter.

A truly extraordinary citizen who also spent many years as a volunteer manager of the St. Vincent DePaul Thrift Store, Keown currently works with the Neighborhood Action Office to improve streets and sidewalks.