Partners Protecting Kids

Every year, the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) presents the “Partners Protecting Kids” award at the annual Making a Difference for Generations Gala, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Rapid City Rushmore.

We are excited to share that this year’s “Partners Protecting Kids” award went to two CHS staff—Assistant Director of Development and Events Theresa Schreiner and Event and Volunteer Specialist Abby Sharp!

Established in 2014, the award honors an individual, group or organization that goes above and beyond to have a significant role in protecting children from abuse.

Both Theresa and Abby were chosen for this award because of the multitude of wonderful things they do like building relationships with donors, organizing fundraisers and ensuring the needs of every child at BHCH are met. Their caring hearts extend to everyone on campus. Theresa and Abby not only provide a listening ear to staff but also make sure that they have the resources needed to perform their jobs.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to receive the ‘Partner Protecting Kids’ award and to be just a tiny, tiny piece of the healing process for kids and families,” said Theresa. “Even after 15 years, I still get goosebumps when I think of the difference CHS makes in the healing journey for so many children and families.”

“It was a huge surprise to be one of this year’s award recipients,” said Abby. “Working every day with this wonderful team is a blessing. We have fantastic relationships with our community partners, businesses, and individuals who really support our mission.”

Vice President of Development Kara Flynn said they both go out of their way to make everyone feel valued and special.

“Abby and Theresa really epitomize ‘we stand for good’,” said Kara. “They go above and beyond making everyone feel like they are a special person.”

Because the donations from the Gala will no longer benefit the CAC endowment and instead support the new Rapid City Campus, this was the last year of the award. Family Advocate Coordinator Jennifer Arnold said, “The CAC team knew right away that the perfect bookend to the story of this incredible recognition would be to honor two of our very own from the CHS Family.”

“Theresa and Abby are quietly efficient and never miss a single detail,” said Jennifer. “These two remarkable ladies are our behind-the-scenes elves, making all the magic happen for the kids and families we serve. On behalf of the CAC staff and every single child you’ve touched, thank you beyond measure.”

Congratulations Theresa and Abby! Thank you for always standing for GOOD and creating lasting impacts on our clients, donors, community members and coworkers.

This video was created for the Gala and to recognize Theresa and Abby as this year’s recipients.