Ways You Can Help

The Spirit of Advocacy Award

“Working on Behalf of Children’s Health”

Children’s Hospital will present two Spirit of Advocacy Awards in 2009 to recognize the efforts of those advocating for the health care needs of their own child, or the broader needs of children in the community. The first award will be presented to a family or family member of a Children’s Hospital patient. The second award will recognize a community partner or professional for using their professional knowledge and resources.

Now Accepting Nominations

The 6th Annual Spirit of Advocacy Awards

Nominate a patient, family or colleague to recognize the efforts of those advocating for the health care needs of their own child, or the broader needs of children in the community.

Nomination forms are available for download here and are due by August 3, 2009. Take time to recognize the fantastic work being done by persons in the community to help others!

Completed nomination forms can be faxed to 804-228-5932 or mailed to:
Children’s Hospital
Attn: Elana Flanigan
2924 Brook Road
Richmond, VA 23220

Criteria

Nominees will have taken a positive action in regard to some aspect of:

  • Legislative advocacy
  • Influencing funding sources
  • Influencing new program development
  • Obtaining health care services for children
  • Suggesting improvements to health care services
  • Influencing improvements to the community for children with special health care needs

Prior winners are not eligible.

Award Presentation

Nominees will be recognized and the announcement of the 2009 Spirit Award winners will be made at a reception and educational session on September 24, 2009 on Children’s Hospital’s annual Advocacy Day. The winner of the Family award will receive a cash prize, sponsored by The Sunshine Circle, Junior Board and Senior Board of Children’s Hospital. The winner of the Community Partner award will receive a plaque.

For more information, contact Elana Flanigan at 804-321-7474 x6077 or at aeflanigan@chva.org

2008 Award Winners

In September 2008, Children’s Hospital announced the winners of the 5th Annual “Spirit of Advocacy” Awards in two categories: the Family Advocate Award and the Community Partner Award.

The Family Advocate Award was presented to Nick Schiaffo. Nick and Gina Schiaffo lost their son Danny to a meduloblastoma, a pediatric brain tumor in 2000. Prior to Danny’s death, Nick made a promise to his son that he would continue the fight for brain tumor awareness and research. Since that time, Nick has made certain that the courage Danny displayed while fighting cancer would never be forgotten. He has spoken several times as an advocate for both VCU Children’s Medical Center and Children’s Hospital for Children’s Miracle Network-Richmond at events including both the radiothon and telethon. He has appeared before the General Assembly and Congress on numerous occasions to discuss the need for higher prioritization and funding of brain tumor research. Currently, Nick volunteers for Lifenet to speak at high schools discussing the organ donor program where his own son gave a last gift of sight by donating his corneas.

The Community Partner Award was presented to Lynda Gunn, Kohl’s A-Team Coordinator. Kohl’s area Department Stores have partnered with Children’s Hospital over the last 7 years and have provided support financially and through volunteer hours for the hospital’s health and safety educational awareness programs which include events, safety posters and commercials. Throughout the year, Kohl’s Cares for Kids merchandise is sold with 100% of the next profits donated to support health and educational opportunities for children. Each purchase supports programs designed to meet the needs of children. Since July 31, 2001, Kohl’s has donated $533,581.36 to help support the mission of Children’s Hospital.

The information on this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only; it does not contain specific medical advice. If you have specific health questions or problems, consult a health care professional for personal medical advice.