The Florida Network of Youth and Family Services’ Annual Meeting will commence June 3-5 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs, Florida. During this three-day conference, member agencies will network with colleagues, celebrate accomplishments and learn from the works of others to continue improving the lives of children and families in need across Florida.
The Florida Network is a not-for-profit statewide association representing 31 agencies that serve homeless, runaway and troubled youth ages six and older and their families. For more than 40 years, the Florida Network has provided services as a “Children and Families in Need of Services” (CINS/FINS) agency, as defined by Florida Statute, in order to prevent juvenile delinquency and encourage good choices and healthy family relationships.
In order to continue the mission of the Florida Network and its subsequent members, sessions surrounding advocacy, communication and thought leadership are on the agenda for this year’s Annual Meeting.
Youth leaders and service agencies throughout Florida will also be recognized for their advocacy in helping at-risk youth and their families seek guidance and reassurance while also preparing them for a new and healthy lifestyle. The recognitions will be given at the Annual Awards Luncheon on June 4 from 12-1:15 p.m. Leaders and agencies that have embodied the vision and core values of the Florida Network this year will have the chance to receive an award at the event.
Below are the 2015 Florida Network Annual Awards winners:
– Agency of the Year – Bethel Community Foundation (St. Petersburg)
– Agency of the Year – Youth and Family Alternatives (New Port Richey)
– Chairman’s Leadership Award – Angel Colon (Tampa)
– Counselor of the Year – Florence Boyce (Daytona Beach)
– Manager of the Year – Gonzellas “Zeke” Whitter (Gainesville)
– Network Executive of the Year – Cheri Brandies (Ocala)
– Networker of the Year – Merlyn Applewhite (Pensacola)
– President’s Leadership Award – Danielle Husband (New Port Richey)
– Program of the Year – Children’s Home Society Wave C.R.E.S.T. Youth Shelter (Ft. Pierce)
– Youth Care Worker of the Year – Christine Morgan (Orlando)