From Florida:

GOVERNOR CRIST NAMES SHERRI CROOM OF TALLAHASSEE AS GOVERNOR?S POINT OF LIGHT FOR ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH

November 12, 2009

Contact:
GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394

TALLAHASSEE- Governor Charlie Crist today recognized Sherri Croom of Tallahassee as this week?s Governor?s Point of Light for Adoption Awareness Month.

?Sherri recognizes the importance of Heart Galleries in the adoption process and her activism benefits so many foster children in North Florida who have dreamed of being a part of loving, stable families,? said Governor Crist. ?The opening of a North Florida Heart Gallery has ensured that potential adoptive families are aware of the wonderful children available for adoption, while continuing to promote adoption as a way for families to grow.?

In late 2008, Sherri created and founded the Heart Gallery North Florida, the largest gallery in the state that includes 12 counties. She established a board, implemented organizational rules and regulations, and also inspired and mobilized her community to get involved in this cause. Sherri has recruited fellow adoptive parents, adoption case workers and other influential members of the community to come together to help place foster children with their forever families. Among her many important recruits are local talented volunteer photographers who take photos of the children, print and mount them for display at the gallery. Sherri is also a licensed foster parent and is the adoptive mother of two special-needs children.

AAA Auto Club South is the supporting sponsor of the Governor?s Points of Light Award. This program recognizes Florida residents who demonstrate exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced weekly. A panel of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. Occasionally, the award is presented to outstanding organizations. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program. For more information, or to submit a nomination, go to www.VolunteerFloridaFoundation.org.

Be sure that her husband, Thomas Croom, also a former colleague of ours, is quite proud.