The Pennsylvania Association for the Education of Young Children recognizes the critical role advocacy plays in high quality early learning settings and celebrates those who speak on behalf of Pennsylvania's children. As the voice for early care and learning, community advocates are an invaluable component to assuring all Pennsylvania's children get the start they deserve in school and life.

The VOICE for Children Award is the only statewide award in Pennsylvania recognizing the grassroots leaders whose work impacts the quality of care for young children in diverse settings.  Now in its ninth year, the VOICE Award celebrates not only individual award recipients, but the early childhood profession.

Download 2020 VOICE Award Description and 2020 VOICE for Children Award Nomination Form (word version 2020 VOICE for Children Award Nomination Form)

Watch for the register details for the 2020 VOICE for Children Award Celebration in January 2020!

Make your HOTEL RESERVATIONS soon:    Watch for details in January!

Dr. Essence Allen-Presley

Owner I.C.U STEM Academy and Founder/President of the Childcare Institute of America, Delaware County

Read Dr. Essence Allen-Presley's full bio Dr. E Allen-Presley

Betty Lisowski

Executive Director Riverview Children's Center, trainer and advocate

Read Betty Lisowski's full bio: B Lisowski

Kathryn Stennett, M.Ed.

Retired, Director of Capital Area Early Childhood Training Institute, Harrisburg

Read Kathy Stennett's full bio: K Stennett M.Ed

Peg Szczurek, M. Ed,

Retired, Associate Director of Delaware Valley AEYC, now First Up Champions for Early Education

Read Peg Szczurek's full bio: P Szczurek M.Ed.

Kathleen Pavelko

President and CEO of WITF Public Media

Read Kathleen Pavelko's full bio: K Pavelko

2019 VOICE for Children Award Celebration Dinner

Congratulations to the 2019 honorees!