The National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) have recognized Summit for Kids as one of the best events of its type in the nation. NACIO recognized Summit for Kids in three categories in the 2011 competition; while NACo recognized Summit for Kids with an Achievement Award for 2011 in programming for children and youth.
The NACIO recognition included a Best of Class Award in the Special Projects Category, an Excellent Award for the Summit for Kids Booklet and an Excellent Award in Photography for Summit for Kids Participants with Zippy.
“Summit for Kids is the type of proactive event that we are proud to offer to our community,” said Summit County Executive Russell M. Pry. “This national recognition of Summit for Kids confirms our belief that this type of free program is a viable and valuable contribution to the quality of life in our community,” added Pry. “We are looking forward to another successful Summit for Kids program this coming August 20th at the John S. Knight Center.”
The first Summit for Kids drew an impressive crowd of over 9,000 parents and children. In addition to free dental care, free physicals, free immunizations, free school supplies, more than 80 exhibitors provided information on available community resources for families. There were costumed characters, balloon artists, face painters, demonstrations, crafts, a Teen Fashion Show and entertainment all day long on the even
"The success of our students would not be possible without collaborative partnerships with our community, organizations and businesses," said Akron Public Schools Superintendent David W. James. "The Annual Summit for Kids Event is a perfect example of how the community can come together and help provide the resources our students need to grow, excel and achieve."
Summit for Kids is directed by a task force which is comprised of Summit County Executive Russ Pry; Juvenile Court Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio; Summit County Children Services Executive Director John Saros; Superintendent of Akron Public Schools, Dr. David James; Executive Director of the ADM Board, Jerry Craig; President of Child Guidance & Family Solutions, Elaine Harlin; Summit Family and Children First Council President, Tonya Block; AMHA; Summit County Educational Service Center Superintendent, Linda Fuline with United Way serving as Fiscal Agent. The mission of the Task Force is to enhance the services being provided to children and families in our community.
"Summit for Kids is the pinnacle of cooperation and collaboration among the public and private sectors," said Summit County Juvenile Court Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio. "It blends education with entertainment and provides families with the perfect venue to spend the day together."
Summit for Kids brought together local businesses and non-profit agencies to assist families with programming, medical assistance and educationaopportunities associated with children. Due to the great success of last year’s event, along with the continued commitment of the community, Summit for Kids is now an annual event in Summit County.
"Children Services is very pleased to be a partner with so many others in helping Summit for Kids to succeed. The NACIO Award recognizes the power of collaboration on behalf of children and families," said Children Services Executive Director John Saros.
NACIO assists counties in finding and sharing innovative solutions through education and research; and provides value-added services to save counties and tax dollars. NACo is a national organization representing county governments across America.
This year’s Summit for Kids event is taking place on Saturday, August 20th at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron. The event is free and promises to be both fun and full of surprises! If you would like to be a sponsor or host an informational booth at Summit for Kids, please call Sandy DeLuca at 330-379-1994.
