A couple from Pound were among 10 families honored last month by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families at the Governor’s Outstanding Families Awards. The awards were presented during a celebration at the Pyle Center in Madison as part of Wisconsin’s month-long proclaimed Adoption month.
Laurie and John Rakowski, of Pound, were recognized for their commitment to working with birth families and preserving cultural connections.
As caregivers for children with various backgrounds, they consistently use trauma-informed responses and implement healthy routines to help children feel safe and supported.
Governor Tony Evers and DCF Secretary Jeff Pertl presented the awards, highlighting the commitment and support these families offer.
“Whether through adoption, foster care or the vital support of kinship care, each of these individuals proves day in and day out that family is defined by commitment and connection as much as anything else,” Evers said. “I’m glad to help celebrate the incredible folks from all corners of the state helping to make Wisconsin a better place for our kids.”
Nominations for the awards were received from child welfare professionals, children’s advocates, and residents from across the state who wanted to recognize the families who have opened their homes to children in need of lifelong care and stability. The recipients were chosen based on their stories of exceptional dedication, compassion and commitment to support new and existing relationships for their children.
“Some of the biggest hearts belong to those who choose to care for children and families, not because they have to, but because they believe every child deserves love and every family deserves support,” Pertl said. “This November, we honor the unwavering commitment of all relative, like-kin, foster and adoptive caregivers, and those working with families throughout the process to ensure Wisconsin kids can thrive.”
