We’re accepting nominations for the 2016 Angel Awards through April 8, 2016!
The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation is seeking nominations for the 2016 Angel Awards through Friday, April 8, 2016. Now in its twenty-first year, The Angel Award® program recognizes Louisiana volunteers who perform extraordinary work for children in need. The Foundation will also make a $20,000 grant to the Louisiana-based charity represented by each honoree.
According to Foundation President Michael Tipton, The Angel Awards have recognized more than 160 Angels in almost every imaginable walk of life since 1995. “If you know someone doing good work, it doesn’t matter whether they have a big title or a long legacy. Our experience has taught us that Angels are all around us, making progress in changing the lives of children,” he said.
Indeed, previous Angel Award honorees represent all vocations and include retirees, students and everything in between. Each was chosen for one reason: their impact on the lives of Louisiana’s kids through countless hours of devotion.
“We know without a doubt that there are many everyday people going above and beyond to enhance the physical, emotional, creative or spiritual lives of children – but we need their friends, families and neighbors to let us know who they are,” Tipton added.
If you know an Angel, you can find more information – including rules and guidelines –and a nomination form using the link above.
Nomination packets are also available by calling toll-free 1-888-219-BLUE (1-888-219-2583) or by emailing Angel.Award@bcbsla.com. Nominators are encouraged to send supplemental information in support of the nomination, including testimonial letters, brochures, news articles, photos and videos. (Please note: These materials cannot be returned.)
Profile of an Angel
In 2015, several Baton Rouge-area volunteers were recognized as Angels, including Dustin LaFont of Baton Rouge, LA. Dustin LaFont founded Front Yard Bikes in Baton Rouge in 2010. Front Yard Bikes is a program that teaches young children to earn a bike through hard work and dedication. If kids repair or restore a bike in the Front Yard Bikes shop, they are working to earn it.
LaFont uses his experience as a teacher to educate children on mathematics, physics and mechanics while repairing bikes. As a bonus, the kids experience inclusivity, mentorship, recreation and academic achievement. Front Yard Bikes provides ways for youth in the community to participate in weekly group rides, extracurricular activities and in building reliable transportation in a safe environment.
You can find videos and profiles on all past Angel Award winners online at www.ourhomelouisiana.org.