POMPANO BEACH FL (04.22.08) – The Florida Department of Children and Families has named Elaine Appel as the first ever recipient of its Hall of Fame Volunteer Award. Elaine was selected for this prestigious award as a result of her remarkable 23 year tenure as a Guardian ad Litem for some of Broward County’s most disadvantaged youth.

The 2008 Volunteer and Special Recognition Awards and Breakfast was held on Tuesday, April 22nd at the Jacaranda Country Club in Plantation. Jack Moss of the Children’s Services Council Board presented Elaine with the award in recognition of her many years of dedicated service. Gia Tutola-Mote of Forever Families received the Advocate of the Year Award.

Elaine has worked tirelessly over the years to ensure that the children under her care receive all of the services and support necessary to ensure happy, healthy lives. She is especially dedicated to her target population of children with special needs.

Ms. Appel not only volunteers as a Guardian ad Litem but is also a founding and active board member of H.A.N.D.Y and a longtime Board member of Broward Children’s Center and Broward Children’s Center Foundation.

“In the many years that Elaine has contributed to the Center and the children we serve, she has been an outstanding example of dedication, compassion, and professionalism,” said Marjorie Evans, CEO of Broward Children’s Center. “I can think of no one more deserving of this award.”

For more than 35 years, Broward Children’s Center has been providing medical, educational, and advocacy services to infants, children, and young adults with special needs.

Contact: Thor Barraclough
954.410.4410 thorb@bcckids.org