The American Red Cross of Summit and Portage Counties has selected A. Ray Dalton of the Dalton Foundation and NewVista Partners in Aurora as the 2014 recipient of Robinson Memorial Hospital’s Paragon Award.

The award was presented as part of the Real Heroes of Portage, Lake and Geauga Counties event on May 15th at the Bertram Inn in Aurora.

Dalton, a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist was picked for the award because of his commitment to community service and philanthropy as shown through the Dalton Foundation and New Vista Partners. Ray and his wife Jan started the foundation in 1999 with the goal of reaching out to the “least of these” which focuses on woman and children, those in need of healthcare and those returning home from incarceration.

Ray’s commitment to philanthropic endeavors is not just contained on the Foundation and non-profit side but is also evident in his for-profit businesses. New Vista Partners an equity development / venture capital firm founded and led by Ray has a new focus; social entrepreneurship. “We are investing our time, resources and capital in companies that are led by socially committed CEO’s.” “We are confident that the formula for “doing good” and “making money” are very compatible and in fact the preferred customer experience.” says Ray Dalton.

Even with his challenging schedule he prioritizes his faith, family and civic duties to include humanitarian mission projects, according to the Red Cross. He has been married for over 30 years to wife Jan, and has five children and nine grandchildren.

The Red Cross presents the Robinson Memorial Hospital Paragon Award to a community member who best exemplifies leadership in the community, demonstrates compassion for its people and actively supports the lifesaving missions of both the American Red Cross and Robinson Memorial Hospital.

As a community leader in emergency preparedness and response, the Red Cross presents the Real Heroes Awards to residents of Portage, Lake and Geauga Counties who have acted courageously and selflessly in a time of emergency, or who have gone above and beyond to improve the lives of others.

Their actions embody the ideals, principles and purpose of the American Red Cross to prepare for and respond to disasters.