Florida’s Children First’s 17th Annual Broward Reception Celebrates the Voice of the Youth and the Legacy of Skip Campbell
Florida’s Children First (FCF), the statewide advocacy organization focused on protecting the legal rights of at-risk and foster care children, recognized child advocates and former foster youth in Broward County at FCF’s 17th Annual Broward Child Advocacy Reception, held at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 21, 2019.
More than 250 individuals, including child advocates, elected officials, judges, community and business leaders, and other persons concerned about the future of Florida’s children, were in attendance. This event shined a spotlight on the power of youth advocacy, including powerful speeches from several members of Florida Youth SHINE, a statewide organization founded by FCF that empowers current and former foster youth to become advocates for all youth in care. The evening also featured a special tribute to the legacy of the Honorable Skip Campbell including his work with FCF, his achievements as a Senate leader, and his passion for helping children in need.
FCF Executive Director Christina Spudeas along with FCF President and Talenfeld Law Managing Partner Howard Talenfeld led the event with Joe Johnson, host of Morning Edition on 91.3 WLRN and the nationally syndicated radio show “Beatle Brunch,” serving as the evening’s emcee.
“This year, we decided to break from our traditional awards structure to bring a special focus to the youth who are making such a significant impact and guiding the conversation on the future of foster care in our state. The legislation that they have fought for impacts the lives of tens of thousands of children every year,” said Spudeas. “This year they motivated Senator Lauren Book to sponsor legislation creating a bill of rights for Florida’s foster children.”
“The evening was also a celebration of the life and legacy of Skip Campbell, who was a former FCF Board Member, and a true champion for children’s rights and our work,” said Talenfeld. Former Senator and current Broward County Commissioner Nan Rich also spoke of his profound impact and leadership during his ten year tenure in the Florida Senate.
FCF thanks its Statewide Sponsors: The Florida Bar Foundation, Guardian Trust, The Shane McGee Foundation, The Paul Palank Memorial Foundation, and First Focus. The organization would also like to thank its Host Committee and Event Sponsor Talenfeld Law, among the many other wonderful companies and individuals that supported the 2019 Broward reception.
For more information about FCF, Florida Youth SHINE and upcoming events, please visit www.floridaschildrenfirst.org.