The Children’s Home Society has now opened the nomination process for the 2026 Nancy Stuart Tonkin Advocacy Award. Nominations can be submitted from now until Tuesday, September 8th.
About the Award
The Children’s Home Society of West Virginia Board of Directors is establishing the Nancy Stuart Tonkin Advocacy Award beginning in 2018 to annually honor an outstanding advocate(s) who: through leadership, determination and passion, has positively advanced the well being of children and families in West Virginia. The recipient(s) will exemplify the qualities Nancy Tonkin demonstrated in her life-long professional and personal efforts as an advocate for the well being of children in West Virginia. Advocacy, for purposes of this award, encompasses all of the means by which the child welfare system may be improved.
One or more award winners will be selected annually and presented with a cash award of up to $1000 at the at the Children’s Home Society Annual Meeting in November of each year.
About the Honoree
Nancy Stuart Tonkin exemplified advocacy in her work with Children’s Home Society and others. Nancy was successful in all her roles at Children’s Home Society. She was an employee and used research to improve casework protocols. She was a Board Member, Board Chairperson, and Board Member Emeritus. Nancy was an effective recruiter of board members, supporters and volunteers. She was tireless in communicating the mission of CHS to the community and interpreting the community’s reaction. Nancy Chaired the Board of Directors during the 100-anniversary year. Nancy was responsible for linking Children’s Home Society with OMEGA and other organizations which resulted in millions of dollars of support for programs. Nancy lobbied for Children’s Home Society and other child welfare agencies and was successful in improving foster care payments allowing the Society to significantly expand their foster care program. She was trusted and effective advisor to the Children’s Home Society in all public policy matters. She was a strong advocate for permanency, child well-being and family support services.
To make a nomination, please click on the link below.
Nancy Stuart Tonkin Nomination Link