Prevention and Early Intervention has awarded recognition to recipients across the state at the annual Partners in Prevention (PIP) Conferences. The following outstanding stories of service and triumph are an inspiration for what individuals can contribute for Texas communities.

  • 2023
  • 2022
  • 2021
  • 2020
  • 2019

2023 Recognition & Stories


Denillah YoungDenillah Young is an inspiration to her peers. She is supportive of her peers and wants to bring out the best of those around her, which she does by being a leader in and out of the classroom. Her nominator described her as positive, confident, creative, and collaborative. Through her creative writing and art, she inspires others to share their own self-expression.

"The poems that she writes are very close to her and her life," says Bill Moran. "My hope for Denillah's future is that she follows whatever path opens up to her, whatever path challenges but also respects her creativity and talent. The steps that she made in poetry are towards wherever she is walking towards."

Denillah has been recognized as an Outstanding Youth for 2023 by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Denillah's video story to learn more about her.


John ZunigaJohn Zuniga was nominated by his YAC Coordinator because he is “a person who helps everyone around him.” John is a member of many student organizations including band and student council. He manages these commitments while maintaining high academic achievement. He is always ready to offer advice and support to his peers when needed. In addition to his other commitments, he also serves as president of the school’s Youth Advisory Council. Last Christmas, he organized an entire event for a local nursing home to ensure they would have a Christmas concert and was able to get other students (even those not on the YAC) to participate.

"In any organization I've been in a part over 25 years in education, I never had a student who showed up on his own every week, sometimes multiple times a week, 'Okay, what do you need me to help you with? What can I do?'" says Michele Maschler. "He is going to stand out and do well in life, in college, whatever he chooses to do. I have no doubt because I have seen what he can do and what he encourages others to do."

John’s devotion and kindness has earned him recognition as an Outstanding Youth for 2023 by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch John's video story to learn more about her.


Maria ResendezMaria Resendez was brought up in a household without many positive parenting behaviors. She overcame this by going out of her way to learn these skills. She is a seeker of information and is very engaged with her Parent Educator. Her nominator highlights her hard work and dedication in overcoming difficulties early in her life to become a role model for her community. She takes time to help families with CPS concerns and is also a member of the HOPES Family Leadership Council. She is noted as being strong, supportive, and optimistic.

"Everytime we talk, her main goal and focus is 'I want to give my kids a different childhood than I had. I want to give them a different future. I want to be the best mom I can for them," says MaCae Bairett. "Despite all of her setbacks, she is so determined not just to overcome them but exceed her struggles."

Maria's resilience and perservence has earned her recognition for the 2023 Outstanding Parent and Caregiver Award by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Maria's video story to learn more about her.


Esperanza MateosEsperanza Mateos goes above and beyond in her program. She changed her lifestyle to focus on her kids. She also motivated and helped to create a special therapeutic support group dedicated to supporting mothers and their babies. She overcame many difficulties, but uses that past to educate and help families. Her nominator says that “her story helps other women to feel that we can always learn by transforming our own lives and empowering families.”

This dedication and service is why the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services has named her a 2023 Outstanding Parent and Caregiver Award by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Esperanza's video story to learn more about her.


Charity EamesWhile currently a director of Clinical Services - DePelchin, Charity Eames has been recognized for a career grounded in direct service. She takes her direct service background into her role as a director and displays outstanding commitment to the organization’s vision. Her staff recognizes her as motivational and passionate. She goes above and beyond in encouraging others to pursue their goals. Through collaboration, determination, compassion, and empathy, her coworkers recognize that she has made an impact on them and on DePelchin.

That recognition has gone statewide as she has earned the 2023 Outstanding Leader Award by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Division.

 Watch Charity's video story to learn more about her.


Jesse SanfordKnown as the “Mental Health Champion,” Jesse Sanford is known for her mental health advocacy. She has attained several certifications to support her team and the families she works with. She went above and beyond by creating a Mental Health Action plan for her workplace, and also started a MOMS group among clients to support first time moms and help them deal with stress.

Jesse is passionate, informed, and dedicated according to her co-workers. She received four nominations from separate individuals. Her dedication and passion have earned her a 2023 Champion for Children and Families Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Jesse's video story to learn more about her.


MET logoMET Inc is community outreach and collaboration star. Nine years ago, this group was awarded the THV grant and had to join or start a coalition that supported families with children five years and younger. At the time, there wasn't an existing coalition in Montogmery County. So, MET formed the Family and Community Coalition of East Texas. Today, the coalition has an average of 35 to 40 community partners that meet monthly to support young families.

For their ongoing excellence, MET been awarded the 2023 Community Collaboration Award by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Division.

 Watch the MET's video story to learn more about them.

2022 Recognition & Stories


The Solis FamilyThe Solis Family has taken the concept of community advocacy to heart in Conroe, Texas. As participants with the Montgomery County Youth Services, Jose, Eloisa, and Johnny’s enrollment in parenting classes strengthened the bonds of their family and allowed them a chance to shine. They have emerged as community leaders who promote participation and collaboration in the programs that helped transform their family.

“Their example empowers other parents, and they help others to be positive and face difficulties with their children with love,” said Martha Chavarro, Family Support Specialist with Montgomery County Youth Services.

The Solis Family has been recognized as an Outstanding Parent and Caregiver for 2022 by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch the Solis Family's video story to learn more about them.


Laura MartinezLaura Martinez’s positivity, resolve, and encouragement are an endless source of help, healing, and hope for Growing Together program staff and families served by the Hope Center of Corsicana, Texas.

“Laura is a very present and engaged mother. She is always striving to learn more tools and tips to continue effectively parenting her children,” said Alison Palmer, Education Director for Hope Corsicana. “She is very attuned with their needs and development and implements various strategies to meet their needs on every level.”

Laura’s efforts don’t stop with her own family, as she is a tireless advocate and encourager of others in the community in need of support. That willingness to serve those around her with warmth and care has earned her recognition as an Outstanding Parent and Caregiver for 2022 by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Laura's video story to learn more about her.


Gabriel  BecerraAdvocacy, leadership, and guidance are just a few of the words used to describe Gabriel Becerra. This 2-year participant in the Community Youth Development (CYD) program and member of their Youth Advisory Council (YAC) takes the lead whenever called upon, while encouraging his peers to do the same.

“He has tremendous confidence,” said Dianna Perez, YAC Coordinator for the CYD Program with Austin Public Health. “Others look to him for guidance, and he’s often the first to put forth and idea for others to try."

This willingness to go the extra mile for himself and others has earned Gabriel recognition for the 2022 Outstanding Youth Award by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Gabriel's video story to learn more about him.


Ava CantuAva Cantu’s teenage schedule would be challenging for most adults. This athlete, cheerleader, band member and Youth Advisory Council member at Raymondville Independent School District manages to get it done, all day, every day and with near perfect attendance.

“Ava has impacted our small town in big ways,” says Michele Maschler, Raymondville ISD Youth Advisory Council Coordinator.  “She volunteered over 40 hours during the COVID-19 vaccination clinics held in our school district. She participates in beach clean-ups at South Padre Island, and she served as the freshman class advisory board member to give her class a voice in meetings with school administration.”

This continuing dedication and service is why the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services has named her a 2022 Outstanding Youth Awardee by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Ava's video story to learn more about her.


Rocio CardielRocio Cardiel has a six year history of serving her community through El Paso Human Services. As a member of the Community Youth Development (CYD) teen leadership team, she embodies the resilience, community care, and flexibility needed to manage the many roles she has taken on with enthusiasm and care. Rocio motivates the CYD staff, youth, and others by displaying her own professionalism, going far beyond her regular duties. She is recognized as a military wife and mother of two who still finds the time and energy to provide extraordinary program services to youth. That recognition has gone statewide as she has earned the 2022 Outstanding Leader Award by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Division.

 Watch Rocio's video story to learn more about her.


Terri  RodriguezFor generations, extended families have played significant roles in rearing children when parents are having a difficult time. Known as kinship care, this is a valuable way to offer a child stability when they can't live with their birth parents. Terri Rodriguez, Kinship Navigator Program Director with Catholic Charities – Diocese of Lubbock, has taken up the call to educate her community about what kinship means, why it’s so very important, and the resources available to families in need. Terri’s work includes research into where her communities need more information, recruitment of over 50 community organizations into an alliance that provides resources and supports, and shoe-leather outreach to schools, events, media outlets, and more. Terri’s tenacity, expertise, and kindness have earned her a 2022 Champion for Children and Families Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Terri's video story to learn more about her.


Easterseals logoIf collaboration is key to community change, then Easterseals in McAllen Texas can unlock any door that stands in their way.They have joined forces with Easterseals Houston on the Bridging Apps project that allows parents, therapists, doctors, and teachers to support the development and education of children and adults. They also partner with the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley on the Help Me Grow program. Their implementation of a Family Resources Center in Hidalgo County provides community members in need with benefits applications, basic needs resources, and information to support the mental, physical, and emotional health of four surrounding counties. For their ongoing excellence, they have been awarded the 2022 Community Collaboration Award by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Division.

 Watch the Easterseal's video story to learn more about them.

2021 Recognition & Stories


Luis VegaAs a stay-at-home father of six (five of whom are still living at home), Luis Vega is the definition of a family man. In addition to his day-to-day parenting, he has eagerly volunteered to be part of the BCFS-HHS Harlingen Parent Advisory Committee, where he holds a leadership role and is the driving force behind the committee. For going above and beyond for his own family and those around him, Luis Vega has been recognized as an Outstanding Parent and Caregiver by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Luis's video story to learn more about him.


Mr. Sanchez & Mrs. Acevedo-SanchezOver the years Mr. Jose Luis Sanchez & Mrs. Marleni Acevedo-Sanchez have put in the work and gathered the skills needed to help their children succeed and thrive. Both parents completed the Padres Comprometidos component of the CYD-Las Promesas de Laredo program, where staff were witness to their dedication and commitment to offer their children opportunities to grow. For their ongoing communication and respect for all members of their blended family, The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Division is pleased to award both of them as Outstanding Parents and Caregivers for 2021.

 Watch Mr. Sanchez & Mrs. Acevedo-Sanchez's video story to learn more about them.


Solana ThompsonSolana Thompson has been volunteering unofficially since she was 4 years old, and she has continued doing so throughout her life. She has participated in: starting a garden at school, trash clean-up at her school, and the El Paso Humane Society. In her tweens, she was active in Girl Scouts. Currently, she is with YAC and has helped further the dialogue regarding race and equity with her peers. Most recently, she has participated in an ongoing service-learning project with the lower-income elderly in her community. This continuing dedication and service is why the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services has named her a 2021 Outstanding Youth Awardee.

 Watch Solana's video story to learn more about her.


Evelynn GomezEvelynn Gomez's care and consideration for others is her greatest strength. This superpower has served her well as the vice president of her Youth Advisory Council and as a participant in multiple volunteer projects and programs in Laredo. Evelynn always lends a helping hand and motivates others to strive for better. Her kindness and passion for what she believes in helps youth and staff as well. The Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is pleased to highlight her care, kindness, and dedication by naming her a 2021 Outstanding Youth Awardee.

 Watch Evelynn's video story to learn more about her.


Pamela CrawfordPamela Crawford is a 20-year veteran of prevention and early intervention resources. Her positive and inspiring leadership in Navarro County has earned her the 2021 Outstanding Leader Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Pamela's video story to learn more about her.


Priscilla GonzalesPriscilla Gonzales' commitment to her community as a Family Resource Specialist with DePelchin Children's Center is evident through the level of passion and care that she shows every day. Priscilla resourcefulness and constant search for ways to help her clients and to make her classes interesting and engaging is just a small part of the reason she was awarded a 2021 Champion for Children and Families Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Priscilla's video story to learn more about her.


Family Service Association in San AntonioThe Family Service Association in San Antonio provides supplemental services that include Financial Empowerment and Workforce Development for families who have children 0 to 5 years of age who are enrolled in HOPES programming in Bexar County. This program, with the support of various local organizations that support families in their finances and in their career planning, assists families with reducing unemployment rates and low wage jobs, increasing personal savings, reducing delinquent debts, and improving credit. For their ongoing excellence, they have been awarded the 2021 Community Collaboration Award by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Prevention and Early Intervention Division.

 Watch the Family Service Association in San Antonio's video story to learn more about them.

2020 Recognition & Stories


Patricia EspinosaPatricia Espinosa's dedication to the children in her lives has led her to a life of service, not just for her own child, but for many other families. Her continuous commitment within her community has earned her recognition as an Outstanding Parent/Caregiver by the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Patricia's video story to learn more about her.


Kayla MontalvoSince the day Kayla Montalvo enrolled in the Parents as Teachers program under Easter Seals Rio Grande Valley in 2018, she has demonstrated a level of devotion and care for the development and well-being of her son that has earned her the nomination of Outstanding Parent/Caregiver from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Kayla Montalvo's video story to learn more about her.


Esteban RamosLeadership, participation and the willingness to take the lead are just a few of the reasons Esteban Ramos was nominated for and awarded a 2020 Outstanding Youth Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Esteban Ramos' video story to learn more about him.


Montserrat GaitanIn every aspect of her life, Montserrat Gaitan never does anything half way. This drive to give 110 percent has earned her an Outstanding Youth Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Montserrat Gaitan's video story to learn more about ther.


Jeff ReedJeff Reed has devoted nearly 20 years to the Family and Youth Success Program (formerly STAR) with the Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG) in Lufkin. Jeff’s compassion, community pride, and drive to foster and support change is evident in everything he does, which has earned him the 2020 Outstanding Leader Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Jeff Reed's video story to learn more about him.


Laura  KenderLaura Kender is driven by her desire to increase parent’s ability to enhance their child’s learning and development and to assist children during the most important developmental years of their lives. Laura’s embodiment of the “No Child Left Behind” mantra, has earned her the 2020 Outstanding Leader Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Laura Kender's video story to learn more about her.


Brooke GordonBrooke Gordon's dedication to and passion for the wellbeing of families served by STARRY-Waco has earned her the 2020 Champion for Children and Families Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Brooke Gordon's video story to learn more about her.


The Parenting Help Collaborative logoThe Parenting Help Collaborative, coordinated by DePelchin Children’s Center in Harris County, demonstrates the commitment to improving the quality of parent training and increasing access for families. It is this commitment that has earned the Community Collaboration Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch The Parenting Help Collaborative's video story to learn more about them.


Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition logoEven though it’s less than 2 years old, the Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition has achieved remarkable strides in connecting families to the resources they need, all towards the goal of investing in the future of their community. This resourcefulness has earned the Coalition a 2020 Community Collaboration Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

 Watch Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition's video story to learn more about them.


Honorable Judge Peter SakaiThe Honorable Judge Peter Sakai has made a difference in the lives of countless children and families in Texas and is well-deserving of the 2020 Luminary Award from the Prevention and Early Intervention Division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. From his years on the bench and from his own study and research, as well as interacting with thousands of children, youth and families, Judge Sakai has shown in his work his understanding of the value of families being stronger, together.

 Watch Judge Sakai's video story to learn more about him.

2019 Recognition & Stories


Cecilia RamirezCecilia Ramirez is one of the recipients of the Outstanding Parent/Care Giver awards. Cecilia, a mother of four children, was once getting regular eviction notices. She is now in stable housing at New Hope in Houston and is changing her and her children’s lives through the Nurturing Parenting Program offered under PEI’s HOPES grant via a collaboration between DePelchin, Harris County Protective Services, and Buckner Children & Family Services.

Since she started last year, Cecilia is amazed at the progress she has achieved with the help of the family coach and case manager. She says, “I’ve set goals each month with Pam. I started with no vehicle and now I have transportation and a career.” Cecilia choose healthcare as her career industry through the program’s “Jobs for Life” course. She also was able to access courses in financial literacy and wellness. Cecilia is now setting her long-term goal to become a registered nurse in 2024. She is one of the many awardees that have overcome obstacles and have been resilient through trials.

 Watch Cecilia Ramirez's video story to learn more about her.


Carmen HernandezCarmen Hernandez was recognized as the Champion for Children and Families Award. Carmen is a PAT Parent Educator/Consultant in Houston. She was nominated because she embodies the passion of the families she serves. Carmen strives to let families know and understand their value and advocates for parent voice.

 Watch Carmen Hernandez's video story to learn more about her.


Jodi Newton Fort Worth CYD Project Manager Jodi Newton couldn’t be more deserving of the Outstanding Leader Award. She has worked for her organization for numerous years and is known throughout the Community Youth Development providers as a strong leader and role model.

 Watch Jodi Newton's video story to learn more about her.


Perla MoorePerla Moore is a parent tutor in the Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program and was the recipient of Outstanding Parent/Caregiver Award. She is a mother of two and noticed how well her children did with the HIPPY program. That is when she was convinced the program worked and wanted to help other families.

 Watch Perla Moore's video story to learn more about her.


Cecilia RamirezZachary Andrews of Lubbock was recognized as an Outstanding Youth Award recipient. Zachary is described as servant leader and enjoys volunteering in Lubbock through the Communities in Schools program.

 Watch Zachary Andrews' video story to learn more about him.


Jennifer Ramirez Jennifer Ramirez of Austin was also recognized as an Outstanding Youth Award recipient. Jennifer was inspired to volunteer because it makes her feel more fulfilled. She is a part of the Community Youth Development program and is an impactful leader.

 Watch Jennifer Ramirez's video story to learn more about her.


The Community Collaboration Award was awarded to the Child Coalition of Webb County. The coalition was recognized for their work in forging solid relationships and referral pathways between coalition members. By working together, the child coalition reached a wider audience and covered the spectrum from prevention to intervention to treatment and now able to assist families regardless of where they fall on the spectrum of needs.

 Watch The Child Coalition of Webb County's video story to learn more about them.