Celebrating Leadership and Impact

Florida Coalition for Children Honors Selfless Love Team Members

Child welfare leaders in Florida are recognizing the dedication and influence of Selfless Love’s Advocacy Team. The Florida Coalition for Children (FCC) honored two A-Team leaders at their July conference in Orlando, Florida. Our Advocacy Director, James (JR) Minter, received the prestigious Collective Impact Leadership Award, recognizing his unwavering dedication to building cross-sector partnerships and ensuring youth voices are central to policy change.

Under JR’s guidance, the A-Team played a key role in passing a groundbreaking Florida law removing public access to photos of children in foster care who are available for adoption. The legislation also empowers youth 12 and older to decide how they are represented on adoption websites, including their photos and personal descriptions. JR’s leadership continues to position Florida as a national model for youth-led advocacy. Our A-Team chair, Knowledge, received the Young Adult Leadership Award. Nominated by her local youth council, Citrus Family Care Network, Knowledge is a passionate and purpose-driven leader who brings lived experience and an unwavering commitment to improving the child welfare system. Her voice and vision are reshaping the future for youth impacted by foster care.

“One thing I want to say is shout out to the councils I was in, Citrus County Network and Selfless Love Foundation. I would not have been able to get here without that support,” Knowledge shared on stage, while accepting her award. “I remember when I first started, I used to cry and be so scared to voice my opinion. Now they can’t even shut me up! So, I want to say to the youth that are in here, I hope you feel inspired and always advocate.”

At Selfless Love Foundation, we believe youth are not just the future, they are leaders of today. We are grateful to the FCC for honoring our mission and recognizing the strength of our team. Congratulations, JR and Knowledge. We are proud to stand beside you in this life-changing work!