INTRODUCING OUR JAMES A. GWINN VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AND OUR ROOKIE OF THE YEAR!

In a short time, Vincent Velasquez, our 2019 Rookie of the Year, has developed a reputation for his tenacity and dedication to his casework. Attorneys have even specifically requested for him to be appointed on their cases, and he has earned commendations from parents and judges alike.

Since becoming an advocate nearly 18 months ago, Vincent has served four children in three different cases, all at the same time. During one of his current cases, a newborn baby was born, and he recognized the need for practical items to help care for him. Vincent coordinated with his friends and family to make sure the new baby had everything they needed.

Vincent's support of Child Advocates goes beyond his casework, and this past year he chaired the Whiskey Pull at our annual Pull for Kids Classic, helping us raise thousands of dollars for our mission. He is always eager to share our mission with those he knows, increasing our reach and allowing us to help more of Houston's children.

Congratulations, Vincent! We can't wait to see the difference you will make for our children in the years to come.

This year’s James A. Gwinn Volunteer of the Year award winner has been an advocate for 16 years, serving 37 children on 21 cases and throughout most of his years as an advocate, he has taken on more than one case at a time. Judges and caseworkers all know Frank as someone they can trust. He is early for appointments, communicates clearly and is always consistent and dependable in his casework. Being an advocate is second nature to Frank.

The children Frank serves look to him for guidance and see him as a comforting and loyal presence. They look forward to their visits from Frank, welcoming his warm demeanor.

Frank serves as an ambassador for Child Advocates and represents an ideal volunteer with his integrity, professionalism and consistency in his casework. Judges know him and thank him, and one judge even took the time to tell a child how lucky they were to have Frank as their advocate.

We are so grateful for advocates like Frank, who exemplify our mission and are making such a lasting impact for Houston’s abused children.

Congratulations to our 2019 Award Winners! We are so grateful to have you as part of the Child Advocates Family.