The 2019 Voices for Children Breakfast was hosted by NC Child earlier this month. Members of the child advocacy community came together to celebrate achievements in their work with families and children and recognize leaders who have made a difference.
SaySo (Strong Able Youth Speaking Out) was awarded the first-ever Community Voices Award. SaySo is a statewide association of youth aged 14 to 24 who are, or have been, in the North Carolina foster care system. As youth who have first-hand experience in the foster care system, SaySo members are uniquely positioned to speak truth to policy makers and community leaders with the goal of creating a stronger foster care system for all.
Benchmarks CEO Karen McLeod was awarded the Tom V. Child Advocacy Award for her tireless work as an unstoppable advocate and voice for children in foster care. She has led the charge for children and their families as an advocate for improvement and reform of North Carolina’s human services systems, including child welfare, mental health, and juvenile justice. Karen is known nationally for her policy expertise, political savvy, and driving passion for doing what is right by kids.
Karen shared that she was influenced early on through the positive experience of a blended family growing up. “When you are part of a family, it doesn’t have to be blood, it can be any type of family,” Karen said. “It is all about the love and commitment of that family to make you their own.”
“She is a fierce advocate for children, families, and those who cannot speak for themselves,” said Tamara Barringer, Former State Senator.
“Karen is one of the most powerful voices for children in North Carolina,” said Michelle Hughes, Executive Director of NC Child. “Karen finds common ground and moves data-driven policies for kids forward. In a time of polarization, Karen inspires us all to find good people who care about kids, and work with them to craft effective solutions."
"We are in an unprecedented time to make a difference in the lives of children and families in North Carolina." –Karen McLeod, winner of the 2019 Tom Vitaglione Child Advocacy Award
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