From left, Laura Kretzer, executive director of Judi’s Place for Kids and President of the Kentucky Association of Childrens Advocacy Centers, Judi Patton, recipient of the 2012 Volunteer Leadership Award, and Teresa Huizar, executive director of the National Children’s Alliance.

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PIKEVILLE – On Monday, June 4, the National Children’s Alliance presented former Kentucky First Lady Judi Conway Patton with the 2012 Volunteer Leadership Individual Award for her outstanding leadership and support of the Children’s Advocacy Center Movement, and specifically the Judi’s Place for Kids in Pikeville, Ky., as well as other Children’s Advocacy Centers around the state.

While serving as First Lady, and in her current role as board member for Judi’s Place for Kids, Patton has demonstrated a passion for this important cause through her volunteer leadership. The award was presented at the Annual Awards Luncheon during the 2012 National Children’s Alliance Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C.

Patton received the 2012 Volunteer Leadership Individual Award as a result of her longstanding dedication to the children’s advocacy center movement in her community. Her initial public work on domestic violence and child abuse began when her husband, Paul Patton, became lieutenant governor of Kentucky, during which time she served on a special task force with the state’s attorney general focusing on child abuse. During her eight-year tenure as First Lady (1995-2003), Patton established the Office of Child Abuse and Domestic Violence through the governor’s office, giving notice to the Commonwealth that these issues would be at the forefront of her work.

Over the years, Patton has worked tirelessly with state agencies, judges, law enforcement officers, health officials and legislators to raise awareness of the problems existing within the system that impede proper treatment and response to sexual assault victims. She also supported the passage of more than 20 pieces of legislation protecting the women and children of Kentucky.

“Mrs. Patton’s involvement over a period of many years at many different levels is inspiring,” said Laura Kretzer, executive director of Judi’s Place for Kids. “Her tireless efforts have improved the lives of thousands of children, and we are proud to see her honored at the national level.”

Teresa Huizar, executive director of National Children’s Alliance, echoed Kretzer’s sentiments. “We are pleased to present Judi Conway Patton with one of our highest forms of recognition for her important work on behalf of the children’s advocacy center movement in Kentucky. Mrs. Patton’s efforts are exemplary and we are grateful for her extraordinary commitment,” Huizar said.

For more information about Judi’s Place for Kids, please visit www.judisplace.org. For more information about the National Children’s Alliance and the 2012 Leadership Conference and Awards, please visit www.nationalchildrensalliance.org.