2021 Champions of Children
Jennifer Garner : West Virginia ' s Champion of Children
Srini Matam : Economic Well-Being Champion of Children
Donna Peduto : Education Champion of Children
Woody Woods : Family & Community Champion of Children
Dino Beckett : Health Champion of Children and they invested in me ,” Smith says . “ Being chosen as a Champion of Children has been one of the biggest privileges of my lifetime . Jen ’ s tireless commitment and selfless sacrifice to serve and support the children in our state is without equal in my opinion . She inspires hope , she role models service-leadership , and she set the example for how kindness and compassion are strengths to overcome obstacles and move mountains — even those West Virginia mountains .”
Save the Children ’ s West Virginia programs include the Early Steps to School initiative that assists babies and young children with language , social and emotional development .
Save the Children has also provided literacy programs throughout the state .
“ To be recognized for the work I have tried my best to do , which is small but is done with all my heart , makes me incredibly grateful to Kids Count and my entire community for raising me with a voice , heart and imagination ,” Garner says . “ I believe in the efficacy of Save the Children ’ s programs . I believe in the heart behind the people . I believe in the way that money is spent . Poor children don ’ t vote . We make sure they have a vote . Every child we reach is one we reach . The impact is real .” •
WWW . WVEXECUTIVE . COM FALL 2021 87