Montgomery County Commissioner Tom DiBello, right, presents a commendation to Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center representative Jane Kim during a ceremony on April 1 in Harrisburg. (Photo courtesy Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center)
A Montgomery County nonprofit professional and police officer were recognized by state lawmakers in Harrisburg for their efforts to protect children.
Jane Kim, Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center of Montgomery County’s director of client engagement and initiatives and Ernie Morris, of the Limerick Police Department, received the Blue Ribbon Champion for Kids award.
Presented by the Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance, the commendations issued during the April 1 ceremony also marked National Child Abuse Prevention Month, which aims to recognize exceptional commitment to preventing child abuse and strengthening families across Pennsylvania.
“Jane and Detective Morris exemplify what it means to be champions for children,” Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center of Montgomery County CEO Leslie Slingsby said in a statement, stressing that “together, their work makes a profound and lasting impact on our community.”
The Blue Ribbon Champion for Safe Kids Award recognizes professionals, volunteers and community leaders who work on child abuse prevention initiatives and help children and families.
Kim was recognized earlier this week for leadership and dedication to protecting children as she lead a team whose members coordinate more than 1,200 child abuse cases each year.
The scope of work amassing advocacy, forensic interviews as well as medical and therapy services for children in need. Representatives from the Plymouth Meeting-based nonprofit highlighted Kim’s work developing trainings that specialize in human trafficking, support groups and trauma informed court practices, including the county’s premier multidisciplinary, 150-member law enforcement and advocates working to combat human trafficking and provide more stringent protections for youth.
“Jane’s leadership has transformed how we serve children and families, ensuring that every child is met with compassion, expertise, and a path toward healing and justice,” Slingsby said in a statement.
Additionally, Morris was honored for his work in the western Montgomery County township, showing commitment to child protections and collaborations in ongoing efforts surrounding child abuse investigations.
“Detective Morris’s dedication to collaboration and child safety strengthens the entire system of care,” Slingsby said.
