The 2008 System of Care Spirit Award Recipient

December 2008: The North Carolina Collaborative for Children, Youth and Families is pleased to announce Dawn Manus, as the first recipient of the System of Care Spirit Award. As the System of Care (SOC) Coordinator at Pathways Local Management Entity, Dawn has made significant contributions to the creation, implementation, and/or advocacy for SOC practices. Parents and colleagues of Manus describe her as "one of those rare individuals who sets the pattern by which other can be measured. She demonstrates her compassion for children and their families in all that she undertakes." In addition, Dawn has continued to focus on the needs of children in the community by bringing community partners to the table to discuss System of Care and how to implement it across systems. On December 12^th, 2008, her family, friends, and colleagues proudly recognized Dawn by presenting her with a commemorative certificate for her outstanding service and leadership.

The SOC Spirit Award was created by the State Collaborative to recognize an individual for his/her leadership and service in implementing and/or advocating for SOC practices and principles for children, youth, and families in North Carolina. To be considered, nominees must be an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service in the areas of leadership, advocacy, advancement of SOC research, and promotion or protection of beneficial legislation.