For Release: January 5, 2012 - Pamela Williams, Office of Communications – (405) 271-5601

Award Nominations Sought for Excellence in Child Abuse Prevention

The State Interagency Child Abuse Prevention Task Force and the Office of Child Abuse Prevention (OCAP) at the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) are accepting nominations for awards to recognize persons and organizations for their demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication to child abuse prevention in Oklahoma. Nominations are due by close of business on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012.

Awards will be presented on Child Abuse Prevention Day at the State Capitol, April 3, 2012. The four awards categories for nominations are: 

1. The 2012 Outstanding Elected Official Award, which is given to recognize an elected official for distinguished service on behalf of children and families in Oklahoma. 
2. The 2012 Marion Jacewitz Award, which is given to recognize an individual in Oklahoma who has made significant contributions to the prevention of child abuse on a statewide level.
3. The 2012 Outstanding Child Abuse Prevention Program Award, which is given to recognize an exceptional community program that has an emphasis in child abuse prevention.
4. The 2012 Mary Ellen Wilson Award, which is given to recognize an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and dedication to child abuse prevention activities in his or her community.

Nomination forms may be downloaded directly from the OSDH website at: http://www.ok.gov/health/documents/2012 ITF Awards Nomination Packet.pdf. Printed forms can also be requested by contacting the OSDH Family Support and Prevention Services at (405) 271-7611.

Email completed nomination forms to sheriet@health.ok.gov, or you can mail a copy of the printed form to:  Sherie Trice, Family Support and Prevention Service, OSDH Family Health Services, 1000 NE 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK  73117-1299.

For more information, if you have questions about the awards, or would like to volunteer to help with child abuse prevention activities in Oklahoma, call OCAP at (405) 271-7611. 

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