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2004 CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN AWARD PROGRAM AWARDEES

Parent Award – Deborah Clark

Deborah ClarkDeborah Clark is the single parent of five children, one of whom has Sickle Cell Disease. While working a full-time job and taking care of her family, she has also taken on the challenge of being a full-time health advocate for people with Sickle Cell Disease. Her goal is to help, not only her son, but all those who suffer from this disease. Her efforts can be found in newspapers, a magazine, and an educational video.

Individual Award – Joseph Craig Hopper

Joseph Hopper and Debbie ZientsJoseph Craig Hopper works for the Children’s National Medical Center, but his efforts to help his clients and their families go above and beyond his day-to-day job responsibilities. He takes a personal interest in making sure that his clients are able to enjoy the holidays, such as Christmas, by contacting churches and organizations for donations and then personally delivering trees, food, and gifts to these families. He has also spearheaded an after-school program for the Adolescent Employment Readiness Center to provide additional assistance to youth who are preparing for adulthood.

Organization Award – Camp Funshine, Special Love, Inc.

Dave Smith from Camp FunshineCamp Funshine is a camp for children living with HIV/AIDS and their families in the Washington area. It’s free and offered twice a year, and is run primarily by volunteers. Camp Funshine offers activities such as canoeing, horseback riding, crafts, outdoor educational classes, support discussions for caregivers, and more. It allows campers an opportunity to experience a relaxing and fun weekend away from the daily stresses of living with HIV/AIDS.

Employee Award – Cecil Doggette

Cecil DoggetteCecil Doggette is the Director of Outreach for HSCSN and in addition to working a full 40-plus hour work week, Cecil often works evenings, conducting support groups or attending meetings, as well as most weekends participating in support groups activities, health fairs, and conferences. He leads by example. Cecil rarely asks his colleagues to volunteer in the evenings or weekends without doing so himself. Cecil has become a constant presence in the community on behalf of The HSC Health Care System.

Employee Award – Justin Goforth

Justin Goforth receiving his award from Debbie ZientsJustin Goforth is a nursing supervisor at The HSC Pediatric Center. In addition to providing personalized and loving care to the young patients in his charge, Justin demonstrates commitment to children with disabilities and chronic illness by volunteering at several specialty camps, including Camp Funshine. He willingly volunteers at these camps, often using his vacation leave in order to participate.