"Partners Protecting Kids" is Awarded to Two CHS Employees
On Saturday, March 1, Children’s Home Society of South Dakota (CHS) presented the annual “Partners Protecting Kids” award to two CHS employees, Assistant Director of Development and Events Theresa Schreiner and Event and Volunteer Specialist Abby Sharp. The award was presented at the 32nd Annual Making a Difference for Generations Gala, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Rapid City Rushmore which has raised $697,000 to date for CHS.
Established in 2014, the “Partners Protecting Kids” award honors an individual, group or organization that goes above and beyond to have a significant role in protecting children from abuse. The honoree displays the courage to speak out on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves, promotes systemic change, supports protective efforts, or promotes best practices and education concerning abuse. This award is a prestigious recognition of those who are committed to helping the most vulnerable population in our community.
Vice President of Development Kara Flynn said that Schreiner and Sharp are very deserving of this award. “They are not only essential to the Children’s Home Foundation team but also make a difference in the lives of others,” she said.
“At CHS we believe in standing for good, and Abby and Theresa really epitomize that saying,” explained Flynn. “They stand not only for everyone getting the care they need, but they also go out of their way to make everyone feel special—staff, clients, donors and community members.”
CHS’s Child Advocacy Center (CAC) presents the “Partners Protecting Kids” award at the annual Gala. Because donations collected from the Gala will no longer benefit CAC and will instead support the new Rapid City Campus, this was the last year of the award. Jennifer Arnold is a Family Advocate Coordinator for CAC. She said the CAC team knew this year’s award had to go to someone working behind the scenes, making a huge impact on others. Arnold said Schreiner and Sharp were the ideal recipients to honor for this last “Partners Protecting Kids” award.
“Theresa and Abby are quietly efficient and never miss a single detail,” said Arnold. “These two remarkable ladies are our behind-the-scenes elves, making all the magic happen for the kids and families we serve. On behalf of the CAC staff and every single child you’ve touched, thank you beyond measure.”
