The Center for Children & Families hosted "Stand for Hope Together" to mark National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.
The event featured Mayor Friday Ellis of Monroe, Mayor Staci Mitchell of West Monroe, Mayor Gerald Brown of Richwood, and Mayor Matt Talbert of Sterlington, as they presented a joint mayoral proclamation, officially declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The event also honored outstanding community members who have devoted their lives to protecting children, supporting families, and working to prevent child abuse.
“Together, we can stand for hope in three powerful ways,” said Chris Ramsey, chief operating officer at The Center for Children & Families. “We can learn to recognize the signs of abuse and understand how to report it, we can volunteer as child advocates with the CASA program, and we can give generously to ensure the essential services provided by The Center continue to make a lasting impact.”
A release from the Center for Children and Families explains that April is a time to reflect on the critical need for vigilance and action in preventing child abuse.
Five individuals received awards, recognizing the commitment they have to children and families through The Center's core programs:
Susie Halley received the Humanitarian Award – Brokers of Hope. Halley, Director of Trees of Righteousness, was awarded for her dedication to meeting the needs of children and families through advocacy and community partnership.
Kalinciar Hunter and Wayne Singley received the Outstanding Service Awards – Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeast Louisiana, Senior investigators with Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office, for their outstanding service to children and families in the community.
Sherneeka Burrell received the Practice with Patience Award – Family Support and Youth Transition. Burrell, a probation and parole Officer 3 with the Office of Juvenile Justice awarded for her consistent work with the youth navigating the justice system.
Amber Driggers received the Excellence in Advocacy Award from the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Northeast Louisiana. Driggers, currently a CASA volunteer, was awarded for her commitment as a voice for youth in foster care.
For more information, visit www.standforhope.org. For volunteer information, visit www.CASAofNELA.org.
