The R. David and I. Lorraine Thomas Child Advocate of the Year Award

Created in 1982 by the late Dave Thomas, this is the single highest honor CHS can bestow upon an individual or organization. It was Mr. Thomas’ hope that the award would not only recognize those who have made a tremendous impact on the lives of children, but that it would also serve as a catalyst to inspire others to make a difference. The award honors passionate child advocates who have given their time, talent and financial resources in hopes of creating happier tomorrows for children and families suffering today.

We congratulate recipients of this award, as each one has truly helped shape the future for Florida’s children.

Public Official of the Year Award

Honors public officials who have advocated on behalf of children’s issues through sponsoring legislation, approving funding, developing public policies and/or significantly raising awareness of the importance of child abuse prevention and intervention services. Recipients have developed relationships with CHS and have provided tremendous support for children locally, regionally and/or nationally.

We thank all public officials who work on behalf of children and families and extend a special congratulations to our Public Official of the Year Award recipients.

(Note: Not all divisions offer this award.)

• 2007: Rep. Aaron Bean, Buckner Division
• 2006: Rep. Audrey Gibson, Buckner Division
• 2005: Rep. Stan Jordan, Buckner Division
• 2004: Sheriff John Rutherford, Buckner Division
  Congressman Jeff Miller, Western Division
• 2003: Congressman Ander Crenshaw, Buckner Division
• 2002: Rep. Betty Holzendorf, Buckner Division
• 2001: Rep. Doug Wiles, Buckner Division
• 2000: Sen. James E. King, Jr., Buckner Division