Inspired at the Dependency Summit

I'm back from Orlando and I must say, this past week was exciting. Not because I went to Sea World, Universal Studios, or Islands of Adventure. It was because I attended the 2009 Dependency Summit hosted by DCF. The turnout was astonishing. For the first time ever, DCF had to stop registration. Over 1,900 people filled the Loew's Royal Pacific to hear testimonies from keynote speakers, attend workshops, and network with other child welfare personnel.

The Summit began with Jaiya John, a former foster child who has turned his life into motivating and inspiring other people. He read a passage from his book, Legendary, which you can purchase from Amazon.com. The next day we heard from Myron Rolle, a football standout from FSU and Rhodes Scholar. Secretary Sheldon gave his State of the Child Address and complimented the Northeast Region on an excellent job, we heard from Lieutenant Governor Jeff Kottkamp, and my good friend Mike Dunlavy did a great job as emcee during a plenary session in front of almost 2,000 people.

I had the pleasure of attending the Florida Youth Leadership Academy's Reception. They have worked so hard to finish the program. I met 2 of the graduates from Jacksonville. Although I don't know them well, I was proud of their accomplishment.

One of the proudest moments was when Florida Youth Shine, which I am a member, was asked by Secretary Sheldon to walk up on stage and present Andrea Moore with the Secretary's Award. Andrea doesn't do well with "Thank You's". She does what she does for the sake of kids. She's an inspiration, a role model, a mentor, and the mother that most of these kids never had. Thank You Andrea!