by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
“Thanks to our many volunteers and supporters we are still in the black,” said David Bundy, President of Children’s Home Society of Florida. “Hopefully, with their help, we will get through this rough patch and still be able to supply the level of service we historically have.”
Thanking volunteers was the purpose of the annual Children’s Home Society (CHS) of Florida’s “Awards Luncheon Under the Tent” at the Buckner Division campus in St. Nicholas Wednesday.
The organization provides support services for children and families including, adoption, family foster care, clinical services, family services and residential group care. These services are provided to 1,000 children and families daily and about 3,000 yearly at the Buckner Division. That type of volume can’t be served without some volunteer help and the organization recognized Its volunteer, child advocate, public official, corporate citizen and foster parents of the year.
Jacksonville native Barbara Melcolm was named “Volunteer of the Year” for her time spent at the Teen Girls Residence above and beyond what is asked of volunteers. She has attended a graduation and helped girls apply for jobs.
Carter and Cheryl Bryan were named “R. David and I. Lorraine Thomas Child Advocates of the Year.” The award is given to those who have made a significant impact toward improving the lives of underprivileged youth.
“Public Officials of the Year” recognized the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court Judges in the Juvenile Division, Judges Henry Davis, David Gooding, Jack Schemer and Waddell Wallace. The division was responsible for a record “Corporate Citizen of the Year.” The company created “Crafternoon” for CHS, which involves a family-oriented event that brings people together to make crafts.
Sarah and Nathaniel Alspaugh were named “Foster Parents of the Year.” After becoming certified foster parents, the Alspaughs have adopted five children over the last four years.
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