GOVERNOR CRIST NAMES HEIDI AKERS OF LARGO AS POINT OF LIGHT

November 26, 2008

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GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE
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TALLAHASSEE — Governor Crist, continuing his celebration of National Adoption Month, recognized Heidi Akers of Largo as this week’s Point of Light.

“Heidi’s commitment to community outreach has been vital to increasing adoption awareness throughout the Sunshine State,” said Governor Crist. “Her tireless dedication to organizing events that benefit children is an inspiration for others to follow.”

Heidi is a founding member and current president of the board for the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco, and she has dedicated herself to finding permanent, loving homes for children living in foster care. Last month, she traveled to Tallahassee to participate in the first-ever statewide Heart Gallery workshop. Whether she is running a board meeting or staffing a booth at an event, Heidi is instrumental in helping foster children find homes.
  
Heidi has raised adoption awareness through media outreach including writing articles for several publications, appearing on a local radio station, speaking to community organizations and participating in public forums. Through the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco, she has helped 27 children find forever families. She also has matched 32 other children with prospective adoptive families.
 
“Heidi has been with the Heart Gallery from the very beginning; she helped give it birth and, as president, has sustained it through our development and our success,” said Kristin Brett, executive director of the Heart Gallery of Pinellas and Pasco. “She is incredibly dedicated, smart, energetic and fun, and she brings a sense of class and perfectionism to all she does. We are thrilled that she is receiving this well-deserved recognition.”

     CSX and AAA are supporting sponsors of the Governor’s Points of Light Award. This program recognizes a Florida resident who demonstrates exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced weekly. A panel of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program. For more information, or to nominate, go to www.VolunteerFloridaFoundation.org.