Impact Advocate Award
Every child needs a champion—an adult who will never give up on them.
— Rita F. Pierson
Thank You For Submitting Your 2026 Impact Advocate Award Nominations!
The Impact Advocate Award aims to celebrate and recognize a remarkable Floridian in their career who is positively shaping the future of the state’s young children, teens, and families. This award is presented to an individual who is actively engaged as an advocate, working diligently on behalf of their local communities or statewide, initiating programs or policies that positively affect the status and well-being of others. Congratulations again to our 2026 Impact Advocate Award recipient, Virginia Jacko of Miami Lighthouse for the Blind.
- Anyone can submit a nomination on your behalf. Self-nominations are also accepted
- Nominees must be well recognized, known for their leadership, and demonstrate a commitment to advocating public policies that improve the lives of Florida’s young children, teens, and their families in their local communities or across the state
- Legislators or elected officials currently in office are not eligible for this award
The 2026 Impact Advocate, Virginia Jacko, was honored on Monday, February 23, 2026, during our annual Children’s Week Florida Advocacy Dinner and Awards Ceremony. The recipient was also invited to take part in various activities and speaking engagements throughout Children’s Week Florida events in Tallahassee, Florida.
Nominations are reviewed by the Children’s Week Florida Advocacy Awards Committee, which is composed of former award recipients, community partners, and dedicated advocates. All nominations are pre-screened to ensure eligibility. If a nominee’s qualifications align better with a different category (Chiles, Impact, or Youth), the nominator is contacted regarding any recommended changes. Advocate Award winners are notified at least two weeks prior to the Advocacy Dinner & Ceremony to make travel arrangements (if applicable).
