The Marshalltown Federation of Women’s Clubs (MFWC), in collaboration with Marshalltown Area United Way, Marshalltown Chamber of Commerce, and the Historical Society of Marshall County, is accepting nominations for the 1st Annual Jessie Binford Advocate for Youth Award. The purpose of this award is to recognize, celebrate, and encourage people in the Marshall County area who make a significant positive difference in the lives of youth, particularly those in need of an advocate for social justice.
Jessie Binford was born in Marshalltown in 1876, and her lifelong passion was advocating for children. As stated in the Des Moines Register following her death in 1966, “In her six decades as a social worker and juvenile rights advocate, Miss Binford battled with local and state politicians in what she called a crusade aimed at the delinquency of adults against children.”
Jessie was active in the organization of the Legal Aid Society in Chicago, which later became the Juvenile Protection Association, and served as its Executive Director for 43 years. Jessie was a longtime associate of Jane Addams, founder of Chicago’s Hull House. Jessie Binford worked for 61 years as a social worker and advocate for the poor. She was truly an outstanding native daughter.
This award aims to honor her legacy by recognizing people in the Marshall County area who are continuing this work locally. In addition to providing public recognition of those advocating for youth in Marshall county, this award is intended to elevate the community’s awareness of the accomplishments of Jessie Binford and the causes she championed.
This award is intended be given annually to a Marshall County resident or to someone who works in or serves Marshall County, who has demonstrated commitment to and effectiveness in advocating for children, regardless of their socioeconomic status and cultural background.
The due date for nominations is Friday, October 11. Nominations must be submitted in writing, and may be submitted via email to binfordhouse@gmail.com or mailed to Binford House, 110 N 2nd Ave, Marshalltown, IA 50158. The nomination should describe the ways in which the nominee has been an advocate for youth, evidence of the nominee’s commitment to all youth, and the results or effectiveness of the nominee’s efforts.
Nominees can be engaged in a professional or a volunteer role as an advocate for youth, including staff or volunteers of nonprofit agencies that serve youth.
The Award Banquet dinner will be held on Thursday, November 7 at the Binford House. Details about the dinner will be announced in October.
Please contact Michelle Roseburrough for more information at 641-691-4592 or marcom@unitedwaymarshalltown.org.