Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: July 17, 2007

Health Department Presents Community Partnership Award to Rhode Island Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Today the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) presented the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (RIAAP) with a Community Partnership Award. HEALTH’s Community Partnership Award is presented to individuals and groups who engage in exceptional community efforts that support the mission of the Health Department.

RIAAP Executive Director, Frank Donahue; its President, Andrew M. Snyder, MD; and the organization’s members routinely volunteer their time and expertise to numerous HEALTH committees, advisory boards, and initiatives, including Successful Start, the Child Care Support Network, and KIDSNET.  In addition, the RIAAP has been an early and strong advocate for many public health policies, including immunization, health screenings, and obesity prevention. 

The RIAAP is committed to the attainment of optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults of Rhode Island. The organization supports and enhances HEALTH’s ability to effectively serve families and children in a number of ways. RIAAP has co-authored grants resulting in successful awards of federal funds. The organization also provides in-kind support to HEALTH’s Healthy Tomorrows grant, which offers mental health consultation to child care providers and supports developmental screening of young children in child care and pediatric care settings. The RIAAP’s Pediatric Council serves as a liaison between HEALTH and Rhode Island health plans.

HEALTH recognizes their invaluable assistance and their work in keeping Rhode Island’s young people safe and healthy.