Harrisburg, Pa.– Pa Family Support Alliance (PFSA), the state’s leader in child abuse prevention, in partnership with Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, today awarded LaKeisha Berry with the PA Blue Ribbon Champion for Safe Kids award. This award is given to four individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to support and protect Pennsylvania’s children.

Berry is the Director of Prevention and Family Support at Belmont Charter Network in Philadelphia, where she has over 16 years of professional experience. Skilled in policy development, trauma-informed practices, case management and community engagement; she is deeply committed to improving outcomes for children and families which has earned her tremendous admiration and respect from her peers and community alike.

“By utilizing a strengths-based approach and growth mindset, LaKeisha addresses academic, social, and emotional barriers through culturally competent interventions that promote safety, empowerment, and resilience,” said Angela Liddle, PFSA President and CEO. “Her unwavering dedication embodies the mission and vision of a relentless child advocate, while also ensuring the overall well-being of each family. We are honored to recognize her as a Blue Ribbon Champion.”  

In honor of this accomplishment, PFSA and Secretary Valerie Arkoosh of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services recognized Berry in front of a packed audience of lawmakers, members of the media, child advocates, and students in the Capitol Rotunda today. Pictures and short b-roll clips from today’s ceremony can be found here.

Thanks to a generous donation from Lamar Advertising, a billboard showcasing Berry’s award will be located along Girard Avenue in Philadelphia in April.

PFSA was joined by Secretary Arkoosh, Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, Attorney General Dave Sunday and local and state elected officials during today’s ceremony, which kicks off National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Each year, PFSA hosts activities and events throughout the Commonwealth to increase awareness about the need for individuals to learn about the warning signs of abuse and neglect.

According to the 2023 Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ Annual Child Protective Services Report, there were 4,720 substantiated cases of child abuse, of which 57 were substantiated fatalities and 119 substantiated near fatalities.

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About Pa Family Support Alliance

Pa Family Support Alliance, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, prevents child abuse and protects children from harm by helping parents learn positive parenting techniques, educating professionals and volunteers who work with children to recognize and report child abuse, and helping community members learn how they can play a positive role in keeping children safe. To learn more about our programs, schedule a training, or donate, please visit pafsa.org, or call 800-448-4906.