Laura Henry Allen and Jane M. Vance

The 2010-2011 Funding Target will be:

Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health Unit

Why is there a need?
For over 15 years Wolfson Children’s Hospital has been in the forefront of providing mental health services to children and families. Wolfson is the only community provider that offers the full continuum of services and offers programs for both children and adolescents. Yet the need and range of mental health services continue to grow both within our behavioral health settings, as well as throughout the children’s hospital. The 2010 funding target will be the new eleven bed Behavioral Health Unit. Behavioral Health currently has three full-time psychiatrists who work exclusively with children and adolescents. Our team of behavioral health specialists collaborate with other services within Wolfson to address mental health issues that may arise in complex medical cases. In addition, we offer educational programs to help address the psychological issues children face when struggling with challenges such as childhood obesity, chronic illness, bullying, stress, peer pressure, violence, loss and bereavement. Education, early intervention and removing the stigma of reaching out for help are keys to guiding children and families to hope and possibilities.

“I cannot say enough good things about the care, treatment and kindness extended by your staff during my grandson’s recent event at the Wolfson Children’s Hospital Emergency Room. It was wonderful testimony to our on-going participation with the Florida Forum and what you have accomplished!” 
Jorge Morales, President and CEO, Information & Computing Services, Inc.

Each Florida Forum season features high-profile personalities, such as Jay Leno or Colin Powell, who address informative and entertaining topics. Speakers are selected by the event chairs and an Advisory Board based on speaker availability and the results of an audience survey.  At the end of each speech is an open forum with audience Q & A.  Following the Florida Forum address, major donors are invited to enjoy the company of the guest speaker at a private reception. Forum Presenters and Sponsors receive prominent recognition through print materials, advertising and media exposure.  In addition, the major Presenter of the evening introduces the speaker and has a very special tour of Wolfson Children’s Hospital accompanied by the prominent celebrity of the night