Putting Families First Awards Nominations Now Open!

January 29, 2026

The Department of Children and Families is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Secretary’s Putting Families First Awards! 

April’s ceremony will recognize and celebrate all of the people – including parents with lived experience, county and tribal child welfare (Child Protective Services/Youth Justice) professionals and key community partners – who are doing exceptional, transformational work that Puts Families First. This includes individuals or teams who advocate for families and system change; work to support families in their homes; value collaboration and partnership with families and community partners; and much more!

Anyone can nominate an individual or team for this award – including agency staff, parents, support systems, school staff, peers, advocates and others – so please share this form widely with your networks!

Nominations are due by end of day Sunday, February 15 and can be submitted using this form. 

Any questions about the nomination form or the Putting Families First Awards can be sent to the Putting Families First team. 

Thanks, in advance, for nominating and helping us spread the word about the Putting Families First Awards!