TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — During today’s Florida Cabinet meeting, Governor Rick Scott and Volunteer Florida awarded three Floridians with the Champion of Service Awards for their outstanding efforts in volunteerism and service.
Governor Scott said, “It is an honor to recognize these great Floridians for their service to Florida’s veterans, at-risk children and families, as well as disaster preparedness and response. Volunteers have a significant and positive impact on our communities, and I am honored to present these outstanding individuals with the Champion of Service Award for their commitment to the wellbeing of all Floridians.”
“Rachelle Duroseau, Lea Ann Curry, and the team at K9s For Warriors have a willingness and motivation to serve and better their community,” said Chester Spellman, CEO of Volunteer Florida. “Our volunteers help to make Florida the best state in the nation to live, work, and raise a family, and I applaud these great Floridians for their valued service.”
Rachelle Duroseau, Children’s Home Society of Florida
Rachelle leads volunteer efforts for Children’s Home Society programs in Tampa Bay. These programs help children who have suffered abuse and neglect, and also provide at-risk families with resources and counseling. She has placed more than 300 community volunteers, and recently led a successful Back to School Drive. The volunteers at the Children’s Home Society also serve as excellent role models for the children and families they interact with and serve.
Lea Ann Curry, Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Highlands County
Lea Ann Curry leads Disaster Preparedness efforts for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and has helped over 4,000 families build evacuation plans and kits. She also holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel as a volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol. Lea Ann is a registered nurse with over 49 years of emergency response experience, involving disasters such a Hurricane Andrew, the Oklahoma City Bombing, Hurricane Katrina, the 9/11 attacks in New York City and at the Pentagon, and Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne.
K9s For Warriors
K9s For Warriors is a non-profit organization in Ponte Vedra Beach that connects service canines to veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress and/or traumatic brain injury who served in the military before 9/11. K9s For Warriors empowers veterans with dignity and independence as they transition to civilian life. The K9s For Warriors Academy is staffed by skilled certified canine handlers and trainers who provide a service canine, training, certification, equipment, seminars, vet care, meals, and housing to participating veterans.