25th Annual Realities For Children Awards Gala
KEEPING DREAMS ALIVE
Embassy Suites - Loveland, April 2nd, 2022
In honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we invite you to join us in kicking off our month-long campaign at the 2022 Realities For Children Awards Gala.
For 25 years, The Realities For Children Awards Gala has been honoring leaders in our community and victorious youth who have triumphed over childhood abuse. 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.
This year we'll also feature The Keeping Dreams Alive Awards, which is designed to support and encourage children we serve ages 6-14 who are struggling to keep their dreams alive while living in at-risk situations. Each child writes two essays - their dream for today and what their dream is for the future. This program grants their today dreams during this difficult time letting them know that there are people who care for them and that dreams can come true for a better tomorrow.
NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION & AWARENESS MONTH
Realities For Children has been funding the unmet needs of Larimer County children who have been abused, neglected, or are at-risk since 1996. Together we support the services of 39 Partner Youth Agencies and represent over 250 Business Members invested in making it their business to make a difference. This year we invite you to join us in that fight for our children by helping to draw focused attention to the sometimes hidden epidemic of child abuse and neglect.
Just how bad is the issue of child abuse in the United States?
- Every year more than 3.6 million referrals are made to child protection agencies involving more than 6.6 million children. On average, 19 new referrals and cases of child abuse are reported every day in Larimer County alone.
- The United States has one of the worst records among industrialized nations – losing on average between four and seven children every day to child abuse and neglect. On average, a report of child abuse is made every ten seconds in the U.S.
This April, show your support by attending our 25th Annual Realities For Children Awards Gala, become a sponsor for Keeping Dreams Alive, or help raise awareness by planting a blue pinwheel in your yard or business.
Youth Awards
Within our program each year, we recognize youth who are overcoming childhood abuse.
Keeping Dreams Alive Awards
Triumph Awards
(Even years)
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 to believe in their future dreams.
(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.
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.
2020 Gala Sponsors
Keeping Dreams Alive Sponsor
Inspiration Sponsors
Special Thanks To
Table Sponsors
