MCCA Names Rep. Parson Champion of Children

JEFFERSON CITY, MO. – Missouri Coalition of Children’s Agencies has named Rep. Mike Parson as its “Champion of Children” of 2009 for his dedication and commitment to protecting Missouri children in foster care or at risk of foster care.

“Rep. Parson exemplifies the true spirit of a Children’s Champion. He used his knowledge and skill as a former sheriff and his instincts as a Dad to identify proposed legislation that would have harmed Missouri kids,” said Carmen Schulze, executive director of Missouri Coalition of Children’s Agencies. “Children can’t vote, so they must have lawmakers and policymakers who understand the best protocols that protect their rights and interests.”

Rep. Parson is chairman of the Missouri Legislature’s Rules Committee. As such, Rep. Parson oversees the referral of proposed legislation to the Special Standing Committee on Children and Families, which focused on bills relating to the health, well-being and security of Missouri’s youth, children and families.

Rep. Parson, R-Bolivar, represents Polk and Cedar counties (District 133). He was elected to the House in 2004 after serving as Polk County Sheriff. He is the father of two children and has five grandchildren.

MCCA advocates for the needs of more than 9,600 children in foster care or at risk of foster care in Missouri. The Coalition uses its annual “Champion of Children” award to recognize legislators and policymakers who identify and work to prevent passage of legislation that would adversely affect children on a variety of fronts, including health care, poverty, food and housing insecurity, juvenile justice, early care and education, child abuse and after-school programs.

MCCA is the premiere membership coalition who represents abused and neglected children and the people who care for those children. MCCA advances excellence in child welfare practice. It serves as the collective voice for the children and families that MCCA members serve. For more information, visit our Web site at  www.e-mcca.org