FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 13 September 2017
Anglicare Victoria CEO Paul McDonald, along with a foster carer who has cared for more than 400 children, and a residential care leader with an ability to connect with young people, were among those honoured at last night’s Victorian Protecting Children Awards.
Mr McDonald won the Robin Clark Leadership Award for his tireless efforts to improve the lives of young Victorians.
Anglicare Victoria foster carer Fiorina Castellan, who provides emergency foster care in Melbourne’s south, won the Minister’s Award for Innovative Care.
The team leader of our Alkira residential care home Lisa Cappola also won the CREATE Award, voted on and nominated by young people, for making a difference to young people’s lives.
Chairperson Stephen Newton congratulated all award recipients and finalists.
He praised Mr McDonald for his leadership of Anglicare Victoria and his advocacy for sector reform, including his role as Chair of the Home Stretch campaign which is urging governments around Australia to give young people the option of staying in state care until they are 21.
“Paul is a leader who really walks the talk,’’ he said. “In addition to his big picture advocacy, he regularly visits our residential units to have dinner with young people and staff.
“I’ve often heard Paul say it’s important that he never loses touch with the most vulnerable children and young people that we work with. It’s a sentiment that makes him a most deserving winner, and has contributed so much to what makes Anglicare Victoria a great organisation.’’
Fiorina Castellan has cared for more than 400 children, including more than 200 on emergency, short term stays in her many years as a foster carer. She was honoured for her work providing nurturing care as any good parent would.
The team from Anglicare Victoria’s Kookaburra Cottage – including therapy dog Zeus – were also finalists in this category, recognised for their work creating a home where young people feel cared for and loved.
Lisa Cappola, a long term and highly regarded staff member at Anglicare Victoria, was honoured for her ability to hear the voices of young people and connect with them to create a home like environment.
The Minister for Families and Children, Jenny Mikakos, presented the awards last night.
#ends
Read the media release from The Minister for Families and Children: Celebrating Victorians Who Protect Children.
Media Enquiries: E: media@anglicarevic.org.au P: (03) 9412 6173
