| There are many families in our community that succeed in loving and nurturing each other and in contributing to their community. By recognizing a few of these families, the Heartland Family Service Salute to Families program, presented by Credit Advisors, highlights the importance and vitality of the metro area's most basic institution — the family.
Commitment to Family
These are the "average" families that are not heavily involved in community service activities, nor have faced unusual challenges. However, they exhibit an outstanding commitment to raising children who are healthy in mind, body and spirit. The time available to them is spent together in shared activities that strengthen their family relationship and help the children learn about life in general. In addition, an emphasis is placed on individual growth of each family member as well as the growth of the marital relationship.
Challenged and Successful Family
These families must have faced an obstacle or challenges that would affect their family to a significant degree, and have still maintained a strong family life. Examples of such families include those challenged by physical, mental or emotional disabilities; illness; foster or adoptive care; divorce; chemical dependency; domestic violence; etc.
Community Service Family
These families must have offered considerable volunteer effort to community service, and have encouraged their children to learn about and accept responsibilities toward others. Family members support one another in their volunteer efforts, whether or not the entire family is directly involved. Such families might be involved with school, church or civic projects.
Leadership Family
These families must have provided outstanding leadership in the community. These are usually families with adult children who have carried on a legacy of community service and support, or families with younger children who demonstrate leadership qualities with their own peer groups.
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