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Celebrating Champions for Children

Voices for Ohio's Children held its annual breakfast fundraiser on May 16, 2008 at Windows on the River in Cleveland. With over 400 in attendance, the event raised nearly $82,000 from corporations, individuals and partners to benefit Voices’ work in advocating for public policy that improves the well-being of Ohio’s Children and their families.

Allan Krulak, vice president and director of community affairs at Forest City Enterprises, and Jim Mason, retired Vice President for Public and Community Affairs at Eaton Corporation were given the 2008 Champion for Children Award for their outstanding work for children.

The event kicked off with The Distinguished Gentlemen of Spoken Word, a group of African-American boys from high risk environments who shared their voice through performance poetry.

Marilyn McGrath, Voices Board Chair and Amy Swanson, Voices’ Executive Director spoke of the many accomplishments Voices achieved as a non-partisan voice of Ohio’s nearly 3 million children.

Keynote speaker Frances Strickland, First Lady of Ohio highlighted what she’s learned during her 62-county statewide tour of Ohio. “We should be looking at getting schools ready for children, not just children ready for schools.” She talked about the importance of investing in early childhood programs that support the development of the whole child.

Bill Bentley, President of Voices for America's Children, wrapped up the morning by urging the audience to do more to advocate for children and their families and raise their voice in the upcoming election.

Special thanks to Champion for Children Platinum Sponsor: Charter One Bank; Gold Sponsors: Forest City Enterprises, Giant Eagle, National City, and Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital; and the many other sponsors and supporters of the event. We are grateful for your support and your voice!

View the photo gallery of images from this event.