I have heard it said that children make up nearly 25% of the population and 100% of the future.

For me, this leaves no doubt where the most work should be done to ensure communities that work for ALL.

The principal goal of my previous position as Children’s Ombudsperson was to help establish a system of care that recognizes and responds to every child’s right to be heard and to have all their rights fulfilled. That meant having the privilege to work with foster parents and youth, leadership and team members at Children’s Home Society of Florida. So when I was ready for my next adventure, CHS’ collaborative approach, inclusive culture, and storied history of recognizing and responding to the needs of children, families and their communities proved an easy choice to explore opportunities.

As a Regional Director for Community Partnership Schools, I have the opportunity to support the 25+ year commitments of CHS — along with our partners — to the schools and communities we serve. It is a truly hopeful marriage of policy, practice and resources. Community Partnership Schools follow a proven model that collaborates with the students, parents and staff to address the greatest challenges affecting students, while building bridges to holistic student success. Our partners include local universities, school districts and health care entities to offer a continuum of care beyond the school walls.

Little compares to finding “work” that is aligned with a personal sense of purpose and vision. When that happens, advocacy doesn’t feel like a chore. Instead, it feels like a natural extension of sincerely held belief in our collective power and potential; an easy conversation about the inherent and immediate value of children like so many conversations we already have; an invitation to participate in a transformative vision for our community and state; and a determination that existence itself be a recognition of our shared destinies.

I can talk about that all day, I imagine you can too, and I appreciate the confidence and trust to do so while representing the thousands of voices at CHS, and the children, families, schools and communities we serve. If you’re interested in joining me as an advocate, please contact your local office to find ways you can get involved.