13th Annual Children's Week a Success

The Children's Forum was a proud partner of the 13th Annual Children's Week, March 30- April 6, that included events and activities at Florida's state Capitol designed to promote the health, safety and well-being of children and families. Events included:

The traditional "Hanging of the Hands" Sunday, March 30, in the Capitol Rotunda. "Hanging of the Hands" features brightly colored cut-outs of hands made by children from around the state to remind legislators that they are not to be forgotten on the legislative agenda. The tradition began more than 18 years ago under the leadership of the Children's Forum.
The Children's Week Advocacy Dinner and Reception Monday, March 31, at the FSU University Center Club, was planned and facilitated by the Children's Forum. Gov. Charlie Crist, Rep. Loranne Ausley, Supreme Court Justice Fred Lewis and Surgeon General Ana Viamonte Ros all spoke about the importance of children to our state's future. Maryann Barry, CEO of the Children's Advocacy Center of Volusia and Flagler Counties, was this year's recipient of the Chiles Advocacy Award for her efforts and activities that support Florida's children.
"Children's Capitol for a Day" Tuesday, April 1 at the Capitol featured press conferences, rallies, a luncheon and the "Kids Only" Town Hall meeting featuring youth asking questions to the newly-formed Florida Children and Youth Cabinet.
April 6, 2008 was proclaimed as "Parents and Children's Day" throughout Florida. Recognized in state law, this day takes place on the first Sunday in April each year and encourages parents and children to spend quality time together and participate in fun, healthy and educational activities in their communities.

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13th Annual Children's Week a Success