When it comes to protecting kids, few efforts are as impactful and lifesaving as teaching children how to be safe around water. That commitment is why Brian Bidlingmyer of the Akron Area YMCA was named the recipient of Akron Children’s very first Community Hero Award. The Community Hero Award is part of Akron Children’s More […]
Gries family receives Family Impact Award for safe sleep education
At the inaugural More childhood, please.™ Awards held in 2025, Meagen and Jeff Gries were honored with the Family Impact Award for their tireless advocacy to protect infants and educate caregivers about safe sleep practices – work rooted in love, loss and hope. For the Gries’, the award represents far more than recognition. The family’s advocacy […]
Birthing Beautiful Communities: Strengthening and supporting families
The Birthing Beautiful Communities (BBC) nonprofit organization won the “Business Impact Award” at the Oct. 1 Akron Children’s More childhood, please.™ Awards. The award honors the tireless efforts of the BBC team to help at-risk babies make it through their first year of life. About the organization Founded in 2014, BBC is rooted in the […]
Adaptive Sports Ohio gives kids of all abilities a chance to play sports
When Lisa Followay, CEO of Adaptive Sports Ohio, learned she was being recognized with Akron Children’s More childhood, please.TM Civic Champion Award, she said it felt deeply meaningful. “This award reaffirms the importance of adaptive sports and the work we do to give all children the chance to play,” she said. “It also reflects not just […]
Mary Leuca’s happy place: The Holiday Tree Festival
Mary received the “Luminary” award at the Oct. 1 Akron Children’s More childhood, please.™ Awards, honoring her dedication to the Akron Children’s Holiday Tree Festival. The yearly event means more to Mary than just raising funds for Akron Children’s. It’s a community treasure – and her happy place. Mary’s love for kids leads her to […]
Beth Cardina: A heart for helping others
Beth Cardina, licensed social worker, received the “Trailblazer” award at the Oct. 1 Akron Children’s More childhood, please.™ Awards event. Not only has Beth’s heart for helping people guided her through a 40-year career in child welfare – but it’s helping her honor her son’s memory. Beth’s beginnings When she was in elementary school, an […]
