When announcing the winner of the Communications category, March of Dimes Chief Operating Officer Jane Massey said “To win the Chapter of the Year Award for Communications, a chapter must show outstanding achievement in increasing awareness of mission and fund-raising activities through its communications efforts.  For the second straight year, Florida has demonstrated effectiveness in volunteer development, PSA placement, news coverage, and media sponsorships in several markets for WalkAmerica, their Chefs event, and the Prematurity Campaign.  In fact, for the Prematurity Campaign, they secured 18 media sponsorships in print, television and radio.  Florida also secured 34 media sponsorships for WalkAmerica and 19 for their Chefs events.  Outstanding job!”

When announcing the winner of the Public Affairs category, March of Dimes National Board of Trustees Member Greg Gumbel said, “To win the Chapter of the Year Award in Public Affairs, a chapter must demonstrate outstanding achievement in developing well-planned, volunteer-led public affairs activities.  2004 was a banner year for newborn screening in Florida.  They secured expansion of screening from 5 conditions to 28, and implementation is already under way.  The chapter also played a role in securing authorization for Medicaid to cover the screening fees.  In addition, volunteers and staff led the drive to restore Medicaid eligibility for low-income pregnant women, saving coverage for 15,000 women!  Terrific!”

When announcing the winner of the Revenue Development category, Gumbel continued, “For this achievement award in fund raising, the qualifying criteria are aligned with both the Team Award for Fund Raising and Standards for Success in Revenue Development.  Chapters receive points for the following financial criteria: a minimum 6% March of Dimes Net year-over-year increase, a margin of 40 or better, 100% or more profitability, and a productivity rating of 2 or higher.  In addition, a chapter must have scored a minimum of 20 out of 25 on Revenue Development Standards for Success.  The highest number of total points in the small and large chapter categories determines the winners.   Florida had a very productive year.  They raised over 10.2 million dollars in March of Dimes net, or a 15.3% increase.  WalkAmerica grew 12% with 7.8 million dollars in revenue, $345,000 over budget.  Major Gifts grew 128% to $594,000, and Special Events increased 10%.  Their profitability ratio is 122.5, and their performance margin is 57.1.  Outstanding!”

When announcing the winner of the Revenue Development category, Massey continued, “To win the Chapter of the Year Award for Mission Triangle, a chapter must show outstanding achievement in Fund Raising, Program, Public Affairs and Communications.  The award is based on nominations received in all categories.  You’ve heard all the great things Florida has been doing in communications, public affairs and revenue development, so you can understand how Florida earned this award, too.  They overcame tremendous obstacles during 2004 when four hurricanes pounded the state — and they still exceeded financial expectations.  They integrated mission into all chapter functions, launched NICU Family Support in Gainesville, and conducted a highly successful PSA campaign.  Nicely done, Florida!”

The Florida Chapter would like to recognize the achievements in Communications, Program, Public Affairs, and Revenue Development and thanks our fabulous volunteers for their outstanding contributions to these efforts!