November 23-29, 2008
National Family Week

• Advocated for policy that enhances the lives of children and families
• Presented a family-strengthening initiative
• Lent support to legislation to improve the lives of vulnerable children and families
• Held a public discussion on issues that strengthen vulnerable families
• Headed an organization that has accomplished the above.

New Jersey Assemblyman Frank Blee (R-District 2)
Frank has been a leader in advocating for more humane treatment of people suffering from mental illness. In late 2004,  he placed a significant phone call to Acting Governor Richard Codey recommending that we change the way we house mentally ill people in our county jails.

As a result of this suggestion, one of the major recommendations of the 2005 Governors’ Task Force on Mental Health recommended a pilot program establishing three Jail Diversion programs in New Jersey. Atlantic County received funding as one of the pilot sites and a cooperative diversion program was initiated by Jewish Family Service, AtlantiCare and Family Service Association to provide intensive mental health services to detainees. (Presented by Family Service Association, Egg Harbor Township, NJ.)

Juanita Bradley, Auxiliary Member, General Daniel "Chappie" James American Legion Post 776, Riverside, OH
Ms. Juanita Bradley is being honored with the National Family Week Advocacy award for her dedication to feeding needy families in Miami Valley for over 20 years. As an auxiliary member of the General Daniel “Chappie” James American Legion Post 776, Ms. Bradley organized the Needy Family committee after learning of families in need. Throughout the year, Ms. Bradley and her committee conduct fundraisers and all proceeds go for buying food for the food baskets distributed during the holidays. The number of needy families continues to grow and there were over 60 recipients of food baskets last year. (Presented by General Daniel "Chappie" James American Legion Post 776, Riverside, OH.)

Michael J. Budlong, Vice President for Clinical Services, Methodist Home for Children and Youth, Macon, GA
Michael is being honored with the NFW Advocacy Award award for his dedication and work in advocating for strong children, youth, and families across Georgia. (Presented by Methodist Home for Children and Youth, Macon, GA.)

Chicago Alderman Walter Burnett (D- 27th Ward)
Mr. Burnett has been very supportive of the community schools in the 27th ward. He has also invested time and donations to the community schools programs. (Presented by Ryerson Y-Space, Chicago.)

Sam Butz, Community Advocate, Member of the University City Kiwanis Club, Gainesville, FL
Sam has been an inspiration to everyone he comes in contact with, whether it is his fellow Kiwanians, child advocacy volunteers, children’s service agency management, or those involved in the Guardian Ad  program.

In 2005 Sam, while president of the University City Kiwanis Club, learned of a program in another city that featured a baby shower event. He gathered all of their information and convinced his board to put on such an event here. Thus was born The World's Biggest Baby Shower, an all day event sponsored by Kiwanis that has grown each year to now attracting approximately 220 young expectant and new mothers, serving lunch to some 600 participants. The annual event features rotating classroom seminars in subjects such as parenting skills, nutrition guidance, health professionals, stress relief, prenatal guidance, etc. and some 30 exhibits by child advocacy agencies. At the end of the day each participant leaves with a goody bag filled with items such as diapers, baby books, lotions, etc. the mothers can use in caring for their babies. (Presented by Partnership for Strong Families, Gainesville, FL.)

Janet Byrd, Neighborhood Partnership Fund and Housing Alliance, Portland, OR
Ms. Byrd has provided leadership in advocacy efforts that have resulted in increased funding for affordable housing to families and children in poverty. The Housing Coalition and its affordable housing agenda in the 2007 legislative session brought an unprecedented, bi partisan voice forward in favor of new funding sources for affordable housing. (Presented by Portland Impact, Inc., Portland, OR.)

Virginia Delegate Kathy J. Byron (R-District 22)
Delegate Kathy J. Byron has been a faithful advocate and supporter of Ways to Work, a program of the Alliance for Families & Children, since its inception in 1998. Over the past nine years, she has expressed her support of the program and its accomplishments. In addition, she has sponsored two successful state budget amendments which have provided stability to the program in recent years. The Ways to Work program offers families the opportunity to borrow money for car purchase or repair. In doing so, the program works with families to stabilize employment, increase income, become self-sufficient and improve the quality of life for those participants and their families. (Presented by Alliance for Families & Children, Lynchburg, VA.)

Missouri State Senator Norma Champion (R-District 30)
Senator Champion has championed the cause of children and families throughout her 10 years as a member of the House of Representatives and her 5 years as a Senator. During the 2006-2007 legislative session, she sponsored legislation vital to child placement, child protection and children services. (Presented by Missouri Baptist Children's Home, Bridgeton, MO.)

Gary Church, Chairman of the Board of Directors, TLC for Children and Families, Olathe, KS
Gary is being recognized for his continued support of TLC for Children & Families, over the past 15 years. Recently, Gary helped TLC acquire the KEYS Youth Services program, sell property acquired through a merger and revised the agency's current by-laws . In addition, he plays a significant role in obtaining funds and grants, and has even stepped up as Board Chair for the TLC Board of Directors over the past seven years. (Presented by TLC for Children & Families, Inc., Olathe, KS.)

Stephen Cole, Volunteer, Chicago
Mr. Stephen S. Cole has been very supportive of the community school initiative in the Chicago area. (Presented by Ryerson Y-Space, Chicago.) 

Desiree Cooper, Detroit, MI
(Presented by Orchards Children's Services, Southfield, MI.)

Emma Jean Couture, Program Director, Even Start Program, Evansville, IN
Emma is being nominated for this award because she is a true champion for children and families. She coordinates, teaches, mentors, befriends, leads, and shares hope and enthusiasm all along the way. Her dedication and leadership have been key to the success of the Even Start Program, and integral to the successes of the families.
(Presented by Lampion Center, Evansville, IN.)

Indiana State Representative William Crawford (D-District 98)
In his 35 years as a State Representative, Bill Crawford has been the leading advocate for low income and vulnerable families. Among his legislative accomplishments have been creation of the Indiana Low-Income Housing Trust Fund, expansions of health care services, hate crimes reporting, assuring the availability of substance abuse treatment services for minority populations, property tax relief for rental housing, ensuring the voting rights of homeless persons, and reform of Indiana’s child welfare services. (Presented by Family Service Council of Indiana, Indianapolis.)

Carol Dabbs, Chairman of the School Board, The Crossnore School, Crossnore, NC
Carol has been a faithful member for the past nine years. In 2002, Carol chaired a successful campaign for the school raising over $5 million dollars. She is involved on a regular basis with staff and students and faithful in every capacity to the mission of Crossnore which is to provide hope and healing for children from families in crisis. (Presented by The Crossnore School, Crossnore, NC.)

Sharon Darack, Program Director, Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically Dependent Persons and Significant Others, New York City
Sharon Darack has been working with teens at risk for twelve years. She has been with JACS for the past five years, and is currently their Program Director. Her efforts on behalf of those affected by substance abuse have been extraordinary. She has provided support and encouragement for teens that are in recovery or in need of recovery, through workshops, holiday events and weekend retreats. Sharon's dedication extends to her educational efforts as well. She collaborates with community organizations to develop effective programming regarding prevention and treatment of addiction; she provides information to schools, synagogues, youth groups and the media and through the organization she provides training for clergy, educators, community leaders and mental health professionals. (Presented by Jewish Family Service of Bergen County, Teaneck, NJ.)

Illinois Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-District 7)
Representative Davis has been a tireless advocate on behalf of children and families by sponsoring a variety of legislation that has supported education of children and services for families. Particularly, Rep. Davis co-sponsored H.R.3628 the Education Begins at Home Act which supports home-based education services, and H.R.2188 the Kinship Caregiver Support Act which provides funding for those who provide guardianship to family members. (Presented by ChildServ, Chicago.)

Vera Davis, President, Westside NAACP, Chicago, IL
As president of the Westside NAACP, Mrs. Davis has been a champion of of children and families.  She has been instrumental in promoting the welfare of families on the Westside of Chicago.  The Westside NAACP has recently partnered with Fannie Mae and other community organizations to provide low interest housing and loans to families. (Presented by ChildServ, Chicago.)

Minnesota State Representative Augustine “Willie” Dominguez (D-58B)
Representative Dominguez is a first-term legislator representing a North Minneapolis district. He serves on six legislative committees and chairs the Disparities in Student Support and Service Opportunities committee. In a short time he has already become a strong ally working to improve conditions for Minnesota’s families, especially those most affected by economic and racial disparities. He has authored legislation to give legal protections to tenants, provide a healthcare safety net for families, increase employment services for ex-offenders reentering society, and much more. He also co-authored the Minnesota Dream Act so all youth graduating from Minnesota high schools pay the same tuition rate to go to college. (Presented by Family & Children's Service, Minneapolis.)

Darlene Dunbar, Former Commissioner of the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families
Darlene has spent her career in the public Child Welfare system beginning as a front-line social worker in the Connecticut Department of Children and Families in 1983 and retiring in 2007 after four years as the agency’s Commissioner. Throughout her career she has consistently focused on strengthening the partnership between foster and adoptive parents, the agency and others in the State of Connecticut. (Presented by The Village for Families & Children, Hartford, CT.)

Sheila Elam, Volunteer, Word of Hope Ministries, Inc., Milwaukee
Sheila has been active in her church and devoted to assisting the community with various technology services, such as, GED prepatory classes, resume writing and summer enrichment for youth. (Presented by Word of Hope Ministries, Milwaukee.)

Paul Elizondo, Bexar County Commissioner, Precinct 2, San Antonio
Throughout his leadership, Commissioner Paul Elizondo has been a strong advocate for improvement of services on behalf of families in Bexar County. He has used his leadership skills as the Chair of the Bexar County Housing Finance Corporation to provide affordable housing for families and has funded programs in the health care services to the most vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled who need utility assistance. (Presented by Family Service Association, San Antonio.)

Reverend Wilson Fallin, Brighton, AL
Reverend Fallin has worked tirelessly to serve children and families in the Brighton Community. He has been an active supporter for programs that help families and has advocated for funding increases to better serve this population. He also has provided free space in his church to community groups that work towards this mission. (Presented by Gateway, Birmingham, AL.)

Paul Fink, MD, Professor of Psychiatry, Temple University Medical School, Philadelphia
Dr. Fink chairs the Youth Homicide Subcommittee of the Philadelphia Interdisciplinary Youth Fatality Review Team, and he is a Senior Policy Consultant for the School District of Philadelphia. (Presented by Philadelphia Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia.)

Connecticut State Representative Livvy Floren (R-District 149)
Rep. Floren is being recognized with the NFW Advocacy Award for her work in securing funds to keep Family Centers school readiness class open. (Presented by Family Centers, Greenwich, CT.)

Maryland State Senator Brian E. Frosh (D-District 16)
(Presented by The National Center for Children and Families, Bethesda, MD.)

Aaron Gelineau, Youth Worker, Duluth, MN
Aaron has been working with high-risk youth and their families for 13 years in the core urban area of Duluth. Aaron has worked diligently with the youth to develop their conflict resolution skills, behavior management skills and life skills throughout the years. Aaron not only works with youth – while he is working with youth he works with the families of the youth in helping them to develop their skills as well. This allows for the entire family to become stronger, a greater support network for each member and more successful. (Presented by Neighborhood Youth Services, Duluth, MN.)

Brian Geraths, Professional Photographer, Portland, OR
Brian is being recognized for modeling his belief that all individuals can make a difference in the community, through action as well as financially, by donating his time to give families involved with Metropolitan Family Service a priceless gift in the form of a family portrait. (Presented by Metropolitan Family Service, Portland, OR.)

Connecticut State Representative Lile Gibbons (R-District 150)
Rep. Gibbons is being recognized with the NFW Advocacy Award for her work in securing funds to keep Family Centers school readiness class open. (Presented by Family Centers, Greenwich, CT.)

Beth Griffin, Executive Director, Citizens for Missouri’s Children, St. Louis
Beth Griffin is a true leader in advocating for children by raising public awareness about their needs while partnering with others to create positive change. She diligently advocates for policies and legislation that promote the well-being of children and families in the areas of child protection, early care and education, health and mental health care, and youth development. Her dedication and 25 years of advocacy efforts has resulted in positive outcomes that enhance the quality of life for children and families. (Presented by Catholic Family Services, Inc., St. Louis.)

Wisconsin State Representative Tamara Grigsby (D-District 18)
Tamar has been a strong advocate for the prison reentry system in Milwaukee County.  She has volunteered at various events here at Word Of Hope Ministries, that help in assisting ex-offenders and their impacted families. (Presented by Word of Hope Ministries, Inc., Milwaukee.)

Lena Grant, Volunteer, Word of Hope Ministries, Inc., Milwaukee
Lena volunteers her time during the summer to assist in the youth summer enrichment program here at Word Of Hope Ministries, Inc. She also assisted in serving lunch to the youth that were participants in the program. (Presented by Word of Hope Ministries, Inc., Milwaukee.)

Michigan State Senator Bill Hardiman (R-District 29)
Senator Hardiman has been very active in his community for many years. Before being elected to the State Senate in November of 2002, Hardiman served as Mayor of the City of Kentwood from 1992-2002. He has also served on the board of directors for the Grand Rapids Transit Authority, the Gerald R. Ford Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Grand Rapids Housing Center, Michigan Municipal League, United Way of Kent County, Spectrum Health Services, Grand Valley Metropolitan Council, Kentwood Foundation, Grand Bank, Crime Victim Foundation, Grand Valley State University Foundation, and Right Place Program (a regional economic development organization).

Senator Hardiman gained national attention as one of the founders and current Chairman of Healthy Marriages Grand Rapids formerly known as the Greater Grand Rapids Community Marriage Policy, a broad-based program to promote strong marriages and family life. (Presented by Orchards Children's Services, Southfield, MI.)

Dr. Creasie Hairston
Dr. Hairston is receiving this nomination based on her long time commitment to research that aids advocacy about issues facing the African American family. (Presented by Jane Addams Hull House Chicago.)

Florida State Representative Bill Heller (D-District 52)
Bill Heller has dedicated his career and public service to the causes of education, children, and families. In 1992, he became dean and CEO of the University of St. Petersburg, Florida. There, he led the fight to make it a four-year campus so local students could get a degree at home. When he stepped down as head of the campus in 2002, the City of St. Petersburg declared August 21 “Bill Heller Day” and honored him for a “Decade of Excellence.” Later, he was presented with an Outstanding Leadership Award, Council on Exceptional Children 2006. Once in Tallahassee, his commitment to the community continued as he has fought to retain and increase educational funding in Florida. In addition, Rep. Heller has promoted diversity and respect within the classroom through the Anti-Bullying Act, co-sponsored equal rights adoption legislation, and much more. (Presented by Family Service Centers, Inc., Clearwater, FL.)

J.D. Hill, Founder, Catch the Vision Ministry, Phoenix
J.D. Hill, is a former National Football League (NFL) professional having played for the Buffalo Bills and the Detroit Lions. Today J.D. is founder of Catch the Vision Ministry which encompasses; a homeless feeding program “Unto the Least of These”, a mentoring program “Pros for Youth” and motivational speaking. He is also very involved with other various programs/foundations including: The Courage Foundation, Child Abuse Prevention Foundation, YES/AZ Youth Education and Sports program, and Real Men Ministries. (Presented by Family Service Agency, Phoenix.)

Paula Hoffman, Integrated Services Project Regional Coordinator, Pine Technical College Employment & Training Center
Paula's passion is working with and for families. As the coordinator for the Integrated Service Project, Paula is a "bridge" between agency partners and staff to ensure families receive high quality services. She raises the tough questions to move forward the integration of services in an effort to reduce barriers for families as they work towards strengthening their families and increasing their financial stability. (Presented by Communities Investing in Families, Stanchfield, MN.)

Elizabeth Ann Ingram, Program Manager, Centerstone, Columbia, TN
Elizabeth Ann has tirelessly championed many barriers to mental health in their community, fighting to provide much needed services so that the future of our children who struggle with mental illness is a future of hope. (Presented by Centerstone's Early Childhood Network, Columbia, TN.)

Kathy Jackson, Art Educator, Fulton County School System, Atlanta
Kathy is being recognized for her work as one of the founders of the Empty Bowl Dinner. She has a true passion and commitment in teaching her students about the real causes of homelessness. She has also played a significant leadership role in involving the network of art educators throughout the Fulton County School system in creating the pottery bowls in their classrooms that have become the signature give away for this event. The pottery bowls have become the symbol of our soup kitchen format for The Empty Bowl Dinner, and students from public, and private schools, as well as some volunteer groups create about 300 bowls annually for this event. (Presented by Jewish Family & Career Services, Atlanta.)

Patty Jischke, Lafayette, IN
Patty was instrumental in bring community awareness to the plight of abused and neglected children in our community and throughout the state. She worked with our Juvenile Court Judge to organize 3 community Forums in 2005 after the death of a 40year-old child who was beaten to death by her stepmother. This led to her founding an annual Community Summit in 2005 to bring together over 400 civic and youth to explore how we can better serve the needs of all of our children and their families. Her impact has extended throughout the state of Indiana by her work on the board of the Indiana Youth Institute. (Presented by Family Services, Inc., Lafayette, IN.)

Mike Jaspers and Bruce Jones, USDA Rural Development, Huron, SD
USDA Rural Development has partnered extensively with NESDCAP for several years to strengthen families through a variety of initiatives. These initiatives have included: Housing Preservation Grant, Training and Technical Assistance, Rural Home Loan Partnership, Intermediary Relending Program, Rural Business Enterprise Grant, Rural Community Development Initiative, low-income apartments. (Presented by NEDSCAP, Sisseton, SD.)

Georgia State Representative Henry "Hank" Johnson (D-District 4)
Congressman Johnson is being honored with this award for his continued support of local youth and families. Congressman Johnson has sponsored legislature to insure the continuation of medical coverage for uninsured youth in Georgia through the PeachCare program, and has advocated legislature to increase funding for HIV/AID care of women, children, and youth. He has also demonstrated his support of our children by providing scholarships and overnight "lockin" events among other things. (Presented by Family, Career, Community Leaders of America, Salem Middle School Chapter, Lithonia, GA.)

Wilbur Jones, Business Owner, Wilbur's BBQ and Catering, Racine, WI
Wilbur is being recognized for his continued support of Family Service of Racine and his devotion in helping children and families throughout Racine. (Presented by Family Service of Racine, Racine, WI.)

Ruth Jones, Retired Teacher, Principal, Grand Rapids, MI
Ruth Jones has been an inspiration to so many in Grand Rapids. As a teacher in the 1990’s, she set her sights high and taught her students to dream big…letting them know they are talented and loved, and have the capacity to go wherever their dreams take them. She provided opportunities for her students to travel, experience the arts, and opened the door to futures many thought were out of reach. As a principal of one of Grand Rapids’ most struggling schools, Ruth engaged parents, community leaders, and corporate partners, and over 10 or more years, helped initiate the building of a new school where children are excited to learn, the community is engaged, and test scores are rising. (Presented by Life Guidance Services, Grand Rapids, MI.)

Helen Jones-Kelly, Director, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Columbus, OH
Helen Jones-Kelley served as a referee (Magistrate) and Assistant Legal Director for Montgomery County Juvenile Court, where she started the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program. In 2003, she was appointed co-chair of the statewide Advisory Council on Children, Youth and Families. She is a foster parent and has worked tirelessly to advocate for children in the state of Ohio. Helen Jones-Kelley was appointed Director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) by Governor Ted Strickland effective January 8, 2007. (Presented by Family Service Association, Dayton, OH.)

Kentucky Youth Advocates
(Presented by Family & Children First, Louisville, KY.)

Florida State Representative Rick Kriseman (D-District 53)
Representative Kriseman has a solid history of advocating for children and families. As a city councilmember, he pushed for local cities to adopt no-smoking ordinances at youth athletic fields, supported efforts to create a more family-friendly city through increased recreation opportunities, and was a leader on city council in public safety and protecting the community’s natural environment. After arriving in Tallahassee, the first bill Rep. Kriseman passed protected Floridians from drunk driving and increased the financial responsibility for offenders. In addition, he sponsored a bill that would implement service-learning, integrating meaningful community service into a school’s curriculum, and co-sponsored several other budget requests for vital community social service efforts, has been a staunch supporter of and co-sponsor of adoption legislation, and much more. (Presented by Family Service Centers, Inc., Clearwater, FL.)

Justice for Autism with Community and Kindness (J.A.C.K.), Ellsworth, ME
J.A.C.K. is being recognized for their grassroots effort, relentless in both vision and mission, in offering the community with the treatment and education needed to successfully work with children with autism. J.A.C.K. represents advocacy at its finest; being vocal, being determined, but mostly being present when there was the need for not only individual families, but also the community. (Presented by KidsPeace New England, Graham Lake Campus.)

Linda Kurtz, Director of the Rochester Regional Office for the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, Rochester, NY
In the early 1990’s Linda convened a group that consisted of representatives of all nine county departments of social services and each of the voluntary agencies to examine why so many children in our region of the state were being placed outside of New York State. These children were displaced from their families and communities. This group continues to meet today and is known as the Joint Planning. It has evolved over the years to include representatives from the New York State Education Department, the New York State Office of Mental Health, the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. The group meets every other month but more importantly they work together on a daily basis to ensure that the needs of the most complex kids and families are not lost in the cracks, but that as Linda frequently says “we quilt together a plan that will be effective in serving these kids”. (Presented by the Glove House, Elmira, NY.)

Elizabeth Lari, Cleveland County Assistant District Attorney, Gastonia, NC
Beth is the area prosecutor who serves on the multi-disciplinary team for the county. Her role with the team is to provide input and guidance to the Department of Social Services and Law Enforcement workers who are investigating child sexual and physical abuse. Her input sets the direction for the gathering of evidence, which sets the direction for the successful prosecution of offenders. Due to her knowledge, compassion and effort, the children and families in Cleveland County have a strong advocate for safe and healthy children. (Presented by Family Service of Gaston County, Gastonia, NC.)

Lawyers for Kids, St. Louis
Lawyers for Kids is comprised of a group of family law attorneys that were formed to raise money for Heritage House, advise on program policies and procedures and advocate for children. Lawyers in this group also refer families to Heritage House. These lawyers are committed to advocating for children in legal proceedings and represent their interests in court proceeds. (Presented by Provident Inc. St. Louis.)

Judge Lori Lefstein, 14th Illinois Judicial Circuit
Judge Lefstein was the driving force behind a volunteer program in the 14th Illinois Judicial Circuit that provided neutral exchange sites for visitation between custodial and non-custodial parents. Safe Connections is now operated under the auspices of Bethany for Children & Families. Judge Lefstein continues to serve as a member of the program’s advisory committee and has been instrumental in securing funding sources for the program. (Presented by Bethany for Children & Families, Moline, IL.)

Paul Macey, Capital District Region, NY
Paul is a tireless advocate for the enhancement of the lives of youth and families, often focusing on the need to enrich the lives of families through the support of what might often be described as simple and wholesome family activities. Spending time together is Paul's mantra, and he consumes his personal time with encouraging the support for and the facilitation of such experiences for vulnerable families. (Presented by LaSalle School, Albany, NY.)

James McCafferty, Director, Children & Family Services, Cuyahoga County, OH
Director McCafferty is truly a visionary leader and the kind of person who inspires those around him to work to achieve the best outcomes for children and families. He doesn’t just expect excellence, he delivers it. Knowing the child welfare system from the ground up, Jim refuses to allow the potential for bureaucratic inertia to deter innovation and systemic change. He partners with families, neighborhood community centers, children’s service providers, myriad public agencies and others to advocate for the best possible care for our county’s children, particularly those most vulnerable. Under his leadership, our county has led the nation in transforming how communities respond to children and families in crisis – we have no doubt that he will continue to be a trail blazer. (Presented by Alliance of Child Caring Service Providers and Family-to-Family Administrator’s Council, Cleveland, OH.)

Jani McCall, Executive Director, Montana Children's Initiative, Billings, MT
Jani has been a champion for kids and families in Montana for many years. Jani is regularly asked by the Governor's Office, the legislature, and the Montana Department of Health and Human Services to serve on boards and councils related to children and family issues. She is a recognized leader and advocate for Montana's children and families. (Presented by Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch, Billings, MT.)

Reverend Catiana McKay, United Church of Rogers Park, Chicago
(Presented by Methodist Youth Services, Inc., Chicago.)

Mayor Ron McIntire, Hayden Lake, ID
Ron has served the North Idaho community for over 30 years in many leadership roles. He has been a strong supporter of family, youth, education and making our community a positive place to live, through years of involvement on the local, county and state policy level. Ron has been a role model and a public servant dedicating his time in many capacities over the years, including: his terms as the Mayor of Hayden; his terms on the school board; the State of ID Boy Scout Council; church leadership; youth sports and activities. (Presented by Children's Village, Inc., Coeur d'Alene, ID.)

Linda McReynolds, Vice President of Organizational Development, United Way of Greater Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN
Many agencies receive funding and are motivated to improve services because of Linda's commitment to children and families. Project Ready for School is but one of her many efforts to make services available to all families in the Chattanooga area.

As Executive Director of Signal Centers, Linda led that agency from a small program serving children with disabilities to an organization that serves both children and adults with disabilities, connects welfare recipients with training and employment through its Families First program, and serves as an umbrella agency for a variety of other initiatives that enrich the lives of residents of Southeast Tennessee. Her ability to recognize a community need and pull together the people and resources to meet that need is unparalleled. As each new project comes to fruition she questions what needs to be done next and how things can be done better. (Presented by Partnership for Families, Children and Adults, Chattanooga, TN.)

Philip M. Mickulas, Chief Operating Officer, Family and Children's Association, Hempstead, NY
The Chief Operating Officer of Family and Children's Association, Mr. Mickulas has been the champion of an innovative approach to providing human services to the economically challenged community of the Village of Hempstead. He has been the driving force behind the agency's Village of Hempstead Initiative- a broad-based effort to improve the well-being of the children, families and senior citizens in the village community. He has advocated with village government and has joined local boards and community associations to improve their capacity to serve their constituents. His concern for the community and his leadership to this effort indicate that the Village of Hempstead initiative is positioning itself as a true catalyst for community change. (Presented by Family and Children's Association, Hempstead, NY.)

Doug Miller, Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy, St. Vincent Catholic Charities, Lansing, MI
(Presented by St. Vincent Catholic Charities, Lansing, MI.)
For over 30 years Doug Miller has been an advocate for children and families, particularly families who have struggled to raise their children well and have been touched by the foster care system. Doug has led others with his passion and has transformed the lives of thousands of families throughout Michigan.

St. Genevieve Catholic Church Youth Ministry, Detroit
(Presented by Catholic Social Services Wayne County, Detroit.)

Chicago Alderman Joe Moore (D-49th Ward)
Ald. Moore has shown himself to be hard working, progressive and effective—a strong advocate in the Chicago City Council for those who live and work in the 49th Ward. Ald. Moore has had numerous accomplishments during his tenure which include—capital improvement projects, rehabilitation and new construction have taken place at all public schools located in the 49th ward. Additionally, Ald. Moore was the leader in the Chicago City Council in the drive for Community Policing. (Presented by Methodist Youth Services, Inc., Chicago.)

J. Tom Morgan, Former District Attorney, Dekalb County, GA
Tom is being recognized for his dedication and platform on fair and just treatment of juvenile offenders. (Presented by Families First, Atlanta.)

New Orleans City Council Member Cynthia Hedge-Morrell, (D-District D)
(Presented by Family Service of Greater New Orleans, New Orleans.)

Donna T. Morris, Retired Judge, 42nd Circuit County Family Decision, Michigan
Judge Morris has been a tireless advocate and supporter of the rights of the mentally ill and initiated the policy whereby judges in the mid-Michigan area take turns traveling to the facility in Caro to conduct review hearings, sparing the patients from the inconvenience and upset of having to travel to the various Courts in the area. She also instituted a similar practice in Midland, choosing to go to the hospital to conduct hearings rather than requiring the patients to come to the Courthouse in Midland.

At the state level, she advocated and testified before various legislative committees for eight years in order to assure enactment of a provision whereby mentally ill patients can, after being informed of the type of treatment recommended by their psychiatrist, choose to voluntarily submit to treatment without having to go through the stress and embarrassment of a commitment hearing. As always, her concern was to help others while at the same time preserving the dignity of the individuals being assisted. (Presented by Family and Children's Services, Midland, MI.)

Kerin Morris, President, Millard and Kerin Morris Family Life Center at BeauCARE, DeRidder, LA
Kerin is a passionate and committed advocate for children and families in the Southwest Louisiana area. She gives of her time, talent and finances to provide assistance to children and families in need. Kerin has been instrumental in the development and support of the Supervised Visitation Center in DeRidder which provides a home-like atmosphere for children, from the surrounding areas, to visit non-custodial parents. This Supervised Visitation Center is only a part of the Millard and Kerin Morris Family Life Center at BeauCARE which also provides parenting education and support to families in crisis. Kerin's ongoing and long term financial and personal commitment to ensuring that quality afterschool care is available, to keep children off the street or at home alone, is unequaled in our community. (Presented by BeauCARE, DeRidder, LA.)

Matthew J. Murphy III, Niagara County District Attorney, NY
Mr. Murphy is a pioneer in the development of a system wide response to domestic violence in Niagara County. Through his leadership, support for victims and their children, as well as accountability and treatment for batterer’s were initiated. He has helped raise awareness of this issue among those working in the court system, law enforcement and in the community. He also advocated for changes in the law to protect victims and to insist on greater accountability for batterers. (Presented by Family & Children's Service of Niagara, Inc., Niagara Falls, NY.)

Peg and Art Nadel, Donors, Sarasota, FL
Peg & Art Nadel have been individual donors of the JFCS Building Strong Families Program for two years. Their financial support has provided significant funds to offer counseling services, case management and direct client assistance for the BSF clients who are at-risk of homelessness. (Presented by Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Sarasota-Manatee, Inc., Sarasota, FL.)

Virginia State Senator Steve Newman (R-Lynchburg)
Senator Newman has been a supporter of various Alliance programs and services including the Marriage Before the Carriage Program, the Partners In Prevention Program and the Ways To Work Program. In the last session, Senator Newman assisted the Alliance in obtaining a budget amendment in the Senate for the Ways To Work Program. (Presented by Alliance for Families and Children, Lynchburg, VA.)

Pastor Dale Newton, Chair of the Southside Neighborhood Association, Pastor of the Tabernacle of Prayer, Praise and Worship, High Point, NC
In addition to serving as a pastor of the Tabernacle of Prayer, Praise and Worship, a church located in the Southside Neighborhood, Pastor Newton has also worked with community members to organize efforts to address the community needs. The group includes residents as well as those who work in the community, and has resulted in the formation of the Southside Neighborhood Association with Pastor Newton as chair. This group works to identify needs of the community to build safe and healthy families in a safe and healthy community. Once the needs are identified, the group works to access resources to meet the needs. (Presented by Family Service of the Piedmont, Inc., Jamestown, NC.)

Hawaii State Senator Suzanne Chun-Oakland (D-District 13)
Child & Family Service would like to recognize Senator Suzanne Chun-Oakland for her tireless advocacy on behalf of the health and welfare of children, families and elders in the State of Hawai’i. Senator Chun-Oakland is respected and revered by countless social service organizations because she has come to the aid so many worthy causes.
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Throughout her career in public service, Senator Chun-Oakland has served with grace and courage that has benefited children with illnesses and disabilities, families in need of hope, frail seniors isolated and stranded in their apartments, and people looking for someone in government who would listen. (Presented by Family and Children Service, Honolulu, HI.)

Ora and John Oliver, Volunteers, Riverside, OH
Ora and John Oliver are being honored with this award for their kindness and generosity shown toward their single and widowed friends. For years, they have invited their single and widowed friends into their home to share holidays with their family. They work tirelessly preparing scrumptious holiday meals and never ask anyone to contribute toward them. Because of them their guests do not have to spend holidays alone. (Presented by Maddie Tillman.)

Evangeline Ordinario, Volunteer, Lake Charles, LA
As a wife, mother, and grandmother, Evangeline "Vangie" understands the needs of children and families. Her willingness to give to, work with, and advocate for children and families has truly blessed the Lake Charles community. Vangie actively supports and advocates for any activity and cause that will strengthen their community. Presented by Family & Youth, Lake Charles, LA.)

Pennsylvania State Senator Jane Orie (R-District 40)
(Presented by Auberle, McKeesport, PA.)

Anne and John Oros, Foster Parents, Children's Aid and Family Services, Paramus, NJ
Anne and John Oros have been foster parents with Children's Aid and Family Services for eight years, serving as tireless advocates for children with special needs, particularly on behalf of babies born to drug-addicted mothers. John Oros has been recently appointed by Governor Corzine to serve on the New Jersey Taskforce on Child Abuse & Neglect. Mrs. Oros also serves on a committee for the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. (Presented by Children's Aid and Family Services, Paramus, NJ.)

Lisa Pellegrino, Director of the Portland Children’s Investment Fund, Portland, OR
Ms. Pellegrino is being honoredfor her long-time support of Metropolitan Family Service, and as an advocate for funding after-school programs in high-poverty neighborhoods. (Presented by Metropolitan Family Service, Portland, OR.)

Wisconsin State Senator Jeff Plale (D-District 7)
Jeff believes every Wisconsin school should provide a world class education. Jeff has fought for a system that fosters innovation, demands accountability, and provides adequate funding. He has also focused on legislation that attracts new businesses to Wisconsin and trains our current workforce for the jobs of the new economy. (Presented by Early Childhood Interagency Council, Milwaukee.)

Connecticut State Representative Dolly Powers (R-District 151)
Rep. Powers is being recognized with the NFW Advocacy Award for her work in securing funds to keep Family Centers school readiness class open. (Presented by Family Centers, Greenwich, CT.)

Ronald P. Remy, Principal, Bassick High School, Bridgeport, CT
Mr. Remy has been an ardent supporter and advocate for the children and families at Bassick H.S. on issues such as risky behavior and poverty. He initiated, in partnership with FSW, an IDA program for students in the school, which has helped them learn healthy fiscal habits and supplied matching funds for money saved by the students for a major purchase. Mr. Remy has opened the school building to community families and continues to collaborate with Fairfield University to support YPP (Youth Power Partnerships) Programming. (Presented by FSW, Inc. CT, Bridgeport, CT.)

Illinois State Representative Dan Reitz (D-District 116)
Dan has been a consistent supporter of high quality services to vulnerable children and families. He listens closely to the needs in the community and advocates for those in the Illinois General Assembly. As leader of the Southern Illinois Caucus, Rep. Reitz took a courageous stand in support of a cost of doing business increase for foster parents, child welfare and youth services. (Presented by Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois, Riverforest, IL.)

Shirley Robinson, Director of PHMC's HELP Philadelphia, Philadelphia Health Management Corporation, Philadelphia
HELP is a 75-unit housing development that works intensively with homeless families to help them become self-sufficient. There are many services on site, including case management, occupational and educational opportunities, day care, children's services, etc... Shirley has developed and run this program for homeless families, many of whom have substance abuse problems, since its beginning in 1999. She has done a remarkable job and is a tireless advocate for the needs of the families. (Presented by Philadelphia Health Management, Philadelphia.)

Kevin M. Ryan, Commissioner, Department of Children and Families, New Jersey
Commissioner Ryan's leadership, vision and commitment to ensuring safety, improving well being and achieving permancy for all children and families has initiated positive sustained reforms to New Jersey's child welfare system. (Presented by Family Service Association of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ.)

Mei-ling Shiroishi, Retired Elementary School Principal and Community Volunteer, Portland, OR
Mei-ling is being honored for her long-time personal and professional commitment to strengthening families in the Portland community. Since retiring, Mei-Ling has dedicated countless hours as a volunteer at Metropolitan Family Service and has made significant contributions in their older adult programs. (Presented by Metropolitan Family Service, Portland, OR.)

Lisa Anne Slatten, Executive Director of the Woman's Foundation, Lafayette, LA
Lisa Anne is recognized in their community as an advocate for women. On the state level she was appointed by Gov. Kathleen Blanco to serve on the Louisiana Woman's Policy and Research Commission. She has served on the task force to establish the Community Pharmacy of Lafayette (for the unemployed, indigent and poor) and has served on the regional consortium for the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. (Presented by The Family Tree, Lafayette, LA.)

Patricia S. Smith Executive Director/CEO, Erie Center on Health & Aging, Erie, PA
Patricia is a nurse by background and has served as executive director and CEO for the Erie Center on Health & Aging for over 10 years. She has also served on many boards and committees, including Lakeshore Community Services, Independent Council on Aging, International Institute, Mercy Terrace, and currently chairs the Partnership for a Healthy Community. (Presented by Family Services of NW PA, Erie, PA.)

Bill Stewart, Deputy District Attorney, Clackamas County, OR
Bill has been a wonderful proactive partner in providing prevention-based and family support services to children and families, with a particular interest in gang prevention and intervention. (Presented by Metropolitan Family Service, Portland, OR.)

Glenna Thompson, Regional Director of Childcare Resource and Referral of Iowa, Council Bluffs, IA
(Presented by Children's Square USA, Council Bluffs, IA.)

WMHT-TV 17, Troy, NY
WMHT-TV 17 is being recognized for their contributions made to the production of the 90-minute town hall forum broadcast last year. WMHT is also committed in helping Northeast produce a 60-minute documentary called “Building Better Futures.” (Presented by Northeast Parent & Child Society, Schenectady, NY.)

Virginia Delegate Shannon Valentine (D-District 23)
Delegate Valentine has been a true advocate for families in Central Virginia. She has worked hard to support our organization in obtaining funding for the Ways To Work program. Delegate Valentine has supported various activities of the Alliance including participating in National Family Week among other things. (Presented by Alliance for Families and Children, Lynchburg, VA.)

John Vater, Principal, The Peabody High School, Pittsburgh

Tiffany Williams, Co-founder and Coordinator, Mentor Network of Stark County, Canton, OH
Tiffany is committed to ensuring that young people have the opportunities they need to reach their potential. As the coordinator of the Mentor Network of Stark County, Tiffany works tirelessly to recruit and ensure quality connections and training for mentors interested in serving young people. (Presented by Community Services of Stark County, Inc., Canton, OH.)

Tina Skeldon Wozniak, Lucas County Commissioner, Toledo, OH
As a trained social worker, Commissioner Wozniak has championed many issues – but none more clearly or effectively than the issue of domestic violence. She has led the charge on domestic violence prevention in their community by bringing advocates directly to the table with government decision-makers. She has also worked to create policies that address the devastating effects domestic violence has on families and communities. (Presented by Family Service of Northwest Ohio, Toledo, OH.)

Yonkers Riverfront Library, Younkers, NY
The Younkers Riverfront Library is being honored with this award due to their help in opening the site to more than 60 organizations and numerous child & family friendly entertainers. This library offers a broad range of programs and services to children & families throughout the year at no charge. They also open the use of use of their facilities to many organizations and businesses in Yonkers, again at no charge.