LA CROSSE, Wis. — Family & Children’s Center is seeking nominations for its 2012 True Blue Champion. The center, which operates the Healthy Families child abuse/neglect prevention program along with the Stepping Stones child advocacy center, wants to recognize those working quietly, tirelessly to prevent or address child abuse.
According to Family & Children’s Center Development Coordinator Jamie Schloegel, the center is looking for an individual, group, organization or company that has made a significant contribution to local child abuse/neglect prevention efforts.
“Preventing child abuse requires the support of the community at large,” said Schloegel. “We’re looking for people who may not have a high-profile but who make a difference in the fight against abuse and neglect. They may be teachers, community activists, local business owners—anyone who works passionately for the well-being of children, beyond what they may do professionally.”
Nomination forms are available on Family & Children’s Center’s website at www.fcconline.org. Applications are due March 30, and the 2012 True Blue Champion of the Year will be announced at the center’s Guardian Gala of Hope on May 10.
This is the second year Family & Children’s Center will name a True Blue Champion. Detective Sergeant Linnea Moren of the La Crosse Police Department was the 2011 champion. In addition to heading the sensitive crimes unit, she serves on the advisory board for Stepping Stones and voluntarily facilitates and participates in multiple review committees and task forces aimed at improving the community’s response to child abuse.
Founded in 1881, Family & Children’s Center is a regional, not-for-profit agency that has helped thousands of children, adults and families enjoy better tomorrows. The center provides a continuum of services designed to strengthen families and promote individual well-being, including child abuse/neglect prevention programs, alternative schools, community-based counseling, community support services for people with chronic mental illness, residential treatment options and several outreach programs.
With headquarters in La Crosse, Wis., and Winona, Minn., the center serves people throughout southwestern Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota and has additional offices in Black River Falls, Wis., Holmen, Wis., Rochester, Minn., and Viroqua, Wis.