Celebrating Compassion: Children’s Network of Hillsborough Spirit of Humanity Award Recipient
The DeBartolo Family Foundation is proud to announce Children’s Network of Hillsborough County (CNHC) as the latest recipient of our $25,000 Spirit of Humanity Award. CNHC was selected as the December 2025 honoree of this award, which recognizes local nonprofits that demonstrate extraordinary compassion and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.
Since assuming the role of lead community-based care agency for Hillsborough County in July 2022, CNHC has become a vital lifeline for children and families experiencing crisis. Their mission is clear: ensure every child grows up safe, supported, and surrounded by the love they deserve.
As the primary organization coordinating foster care, adoption, case management, and abuse prevention services across Florida’s 13th Judicial Circuit, CNHC strengthens families at every turn. Through innovative programs like their Intensive Family Services Team (IFST), they work proactively to keep children in their families’ care whenever safely possible. They help reduce the need for foster care placements and stabilize the home environments children rely on for healthy development.
In a short time, CNHC has introduced transformative changes to the child welfare landscape. Far fewer children are being removed from their homes. Thousands of youth are receiving prevention services designed to improve stability and well-being. And hundreds of families are finding their way back together through reunification and adoption.
“The Spirit of Humanity Award represents the very heart of our work, standing with children and families when circumstances beyond their control threaten their safety and stability. We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from the DeBartolo Family Foundation, whose belief in our mission affirms that when commitment is paired with action, we can change the trajectory of a child’s life and strengthen families across our community.” CEO, Terri Balliet
With this Spirit of Humanity Award, CNHC will be able to continue expanding access to critical family support and permanency services. This work not only changes outcomes today but breaks generational cycles for good.
Lisa DeBartolo, Chief Executive Officer of the DeBartolo Family Foundation, shared:
“Children’s Network of Hillsborough is leading with heart, innovation, and real impact. Their dedication to protecting children and preserving families embodies the very spirit of this award, and we are proud to stand beside them as partners in hope.”
Every child deserves a safe and loving home. There are countless ways the community can help make that possible. Whether through fostering, adoption, volunteering, or donations, your support can change the life of a child right here in Hillsborough County.
To learn more about Children’s Network of Hillsborough County and how you can get involved, please visit childrensnetworkhillsborough.org.
