23rd Annual Realities For Children Awards Gala

featuring the Keeping Dreams Alive Awards

Saturday, April 4, 2020 | 5:00 – 9:00pm | Embassy Suites, Loveland
Master of Ceremonies: Fort Collins Police Chief, Jeff Swoboda

See Photos from Last Year's Event

For 23 years, The Realities For Children Awards Gala has been honoring local leaders in the fight against child abuse and empowering youth as they triumph over childhood abuse. Please join us on April 4th as we continue this tradition and as we recognize our 2020 Keeping Dreams Alive Award winners.

The Keeping Dreams Alive Awards are dedicated to inspiring young children still involved in the social services system to identify and follow their dreams. Children ages 6-14 are nominated by our Partner Agencies and asked what their dream is for the future as well as for today. At the Gala, we grant their “today” dreams while encouraging them believe in their future dreams. This will be an inspirational evening you won't soon forget.

Program

5:00

Cocktail Reception and Silent Auction

6:00

Dinner Seating in the Grand Ballroom

6:30

Awards Program Begins

Community Awards

Each year we are proud to recognize the unsung heroes in Child Protection, Law Enforcement, Youth Agencies, Volunteers, Foster Parents, Realities For Children Business Members and all those who come together in Larimer County to make a difference.

Business Member of the Year

In honor of one Business Member's substantial contributions to our mission and services. This is the highest compliment we can pay to a business who has gone way beyond membership expectations and has proven to be a true leader in the world of business.

Beyond Business

Reserved for Realities for Children Business Members who have been dedicated Business Members for 10 years or more. These business leaders have contributed greatly to the community and culture of child protection in Larimer County.

Child's Hero Award

Our community is blessed with a team of law enforcement professionals that are genuinely concerned with public safety and regularly go far beyond the call of duty to protect and serve. This award is reserved for one officer of the law who has raised that bar to the highest possible heights of service to a local child in need of protection.

RFC CASEWORKER AWARD

Awarded to one caseworking team who has achieved their goals in child protection as well as exceeded all expectations in keeping children safe. This team is to be commended for their success on the front lines in the battle against child abuse.

My Day I Survived Award

This award was named and is given to honor a 7-year old girl’s heroic survival of a domestic violence incident where she was seriously wounded and lost her siblings and parents. She named this award and each year it is presented in recognition of heroism by other survivors of abuse and neglect.

Volunteer of the Year

Without the work of hundreds of volunteers every year, we could not serve the thousands of local children who rely on our services. This award is in recognition of one volunteer who has dedicated significant time and gifts to the children that we serve.

Partner Agency of the year

With 38 local youth agencies collaborating in service through our Partner Youth Agency program, this award is presented to one agency that has exemplified what it means to work together for the good of the children that we all serve.

Foster Parent of the Year

To offer food, water and shelter to a child that is not your own is an amazing gift. But, to truly bond with that child and offer them the home and love they dreamed of, that deserves an award. We honor one foster parent who has proven their admirable capacity to love.

Distinguished Community Leader

To honor Realities For Children Business Members who have been dedicated Business Members for 20 years! This level of commitment truly shows that these businesses are making it their business to make a difference for children in our community.

Youth Awards

Within our program each year, we recognize youth who are overcoming childhood abuse.

Keeping Dreams Alive Awards

(Even years, including 2020)

Dedicated to inspiring young children still involved in the social services system to identify and follow their dreams. Children ages 6-14 are nominated by our Partner Agencies and asked what their dream is for the future as well as for today. At the Gala, we grant their “today” dreams while encouraging them believe in their future dreams.

Triumph Awards

(Odd years)

Honoring young adults who have triumphed over childhood adversity. These exceptional youth are nominated by our Partner Agencies and honored for not only surviving the hardships of abuse, but triumphing over them personally, socially and academically. Winners are not only recognized for their achievement, but provided opportunities for further education and post-emancipation support.