He Mana tō ia Tamaiti/ Every Child Counts
Media statement
20 May 2008

Recognising champions for children

Call for nominations: Every Child Counts Annual Awards

Members of the public are being asked to bring the nation’s attention to the people, groups or institutions working to make a positive difference for our children.

“Every Child Counts* is asking people to nominate those working in their communities to make a positive difference for children for the annual Every Child Counts awards. The awards are an opportunity to recognise the champions for children, celebrate their success and prompt others to step up for children,: said Deborah Morris-Travers, Project Manager.

The awards will be presented by the Governor-General His Excellency Hon Anand Satyanand at the annual Every Child Counts conference in Wellington on September 10 and 11. The 2008 conference theme is: For our children: A better today, a better tomorrow. What’s it going to take?

The Every Child Counts awards, first presented in 2007, are for:
1. An institution or organisation that has made a significant difference in 2007-08 to improve the status and wellbeing of children.
2. An individual who has made a difference by an action or role in 2007/08 that improves the status and wellbeing of children.
“You may know the nominee or simply know of them and their work. They may be working on a neighbourhood, regional or national level. Anyone is eligible; the only criterion is that the nominee(s) must be recognised in their community or sector for a significant achievement promoting children’s interests,” said Ms Morris-Travers.

Last year’s recipients were the New Zealand Parliament for its overwhelming support in passing the new law that amended Section 59 of the Crimes Act to ban physical punishment of children, and Beth Wood, founder of EPOCH (End Physical Punishment of Children), who has worked for many years to create awareness of the needs and rights of children.

Nomination forms are available online at: www.everychildcounts.org.nz

This is a non-monetary award designed to honor and celebrate those whose effort and commitment have shown they’ve “got what it takes” to make a difference.

Nominations are due by 15 July and must be sent to: Every Child Counts Awards Nominations, PO Box 6434, Wellington Or email to children1st@xtra.co.nz

ENDS

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