The Mark Vance Award was created in 2005 to recognize each year the officer who exemplifies high standards, professionalism, and a strong dedication to ending the cycle of domestic violence in Sullivan County.  Officer Vance was employed by the Bristol Tennessee Police Department at the time he was killed on November 27, 2004. Officer Vance was shot upon entering a residence in response to a domestic violence call for service.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Branch House Family Justice Center, along with their community partners, hosted an annual Service and Protection Awards event on October 6, 2023. This year’s recipient of the Mark Vance Award was Detective Kellen Steele of the Kingsport Police Department. Detective Steele has been employed with Kingsport Police Department for nearly 20 years. During his time with the department, Steele has proven himself as a dedicated, compassionate detective and a champion for victims of domestic abuse