GOVERNOR CRIST NAMES SUZANNE STEVENS OF LAKE COUNTY AS POINT OF LIGHT IN HONOR OF FOSTER PARENTING AWARENESS MONTH
May 8, 2008
Contact:
GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394
TALLAHASSEE — Governor Charlie Crist today recognized Suzanne Stevens as this week’s Point of Light for outstanding volunteerism. Suzanne has gone above and beyond her role as a foster parent and has made significant contributions to her community in support programs for children in the foster care system.
“Suzanne Stevens’ commitment to children in the foster care system of Lake County should serve as an inspiration for all Floridians,” said Governor Crist. “She has empowered families with knowledge they need to provide safe and productive homes for foster children.”
Suzanne has contributed to the development of a resource manual that is presented to all new families who attend classes to become foster/adoptive parents. She also established a lending library for videos and books for families. Suzanne is the designer of the Kids Incorporated website and is the editor for the newsletter Kids Chronicle.
Suzanne, along with local businesses, collected $2,500 worth of school supplies for the 2007 school year. In addition, she and the Lake County Motorcycle Association completed their 12th annual Christmas Bike Run that brought in 5,700 donated Christmas presents for children in the community. Suzanne obtained a grant from the South Lake Community Foundation and was able to award mini-grants to young adults who are turning 18 and aging out of the foster care system. She has accomplished all this while also raising her 10 children, 8 of whom are adopted children with special needs, after fostering 92 children in her lifetime.
“Suzanne Stevens is just one of many great foster parents in Florida who consistently go above and beyond to provide a safe and nurturing environment to a child whose family is in crisis,” said Secretary Bob Butterworth, Florida Department of Children and Families. “By mentoring children, advising future adoptive and foster parents, and directing programs for kids in the system, we honor you and the volunteerism you’ve demonstrated.”
The Governor’s Points of Light Award, sponsored by Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, recognizes a Florida resident who demonstrates exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced each week. A panel of judges composed of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program. For more information, or to nominate, go to www.VolunteerFloridaFoundation.org.
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