Pinellas children's agency turns 80

Publicly funded children's services in Florida began with a specific local vote that established a unique taxing structure. Pinellas County voters ratified the creation of the Juvenile Welfare Board on November 5, 1946.

The agency marked its 80th anniversary on Friday, October 23, with the KidsFirst Awards Luncheon. Approximately 600 community leaders, elected officials, and supporters attended the sold-out event.

The Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County identifies itself as the nation's first independent special taxing district devoted to children's welfare. This structure was born from a 1944 effort by juvenile court Judge Lincoln Bogue, who sought better options for vulnerable children. Attorney Leonard Cooperman drafted the legislation that gave the new agency independent taxing authority.

The Florida Legislature approved the measure in 1945. In its initial years, the agency funded three organizations serving roughly 1,500 children. Today, the entity invests more than $128 million annually in children's services across the county.

Current programs address early childhood development, school readiness, student success, health, and family stability. The independent taxing authority provides a continuing source of funding for nonprofit organizations and other service providers.

A governing board makes funding decisions and determines how public resources are distributed among competing needs. Interim CEO Karen Boggess stated in a prepared statement that the decision made 80 years ago continues to shape the community. She said, "Children deserve the opportunity to thrive, and investing in their futures benefits everyone."

Keli Mondello, co-founder and board chair of LiFT, received the Dillinger-McCabe Leadership Award. The Clearwater organization serves children and adults with neurodiversity and different learning needs. Mondello has worked in the field for more than three decades, including advocacy for early literacy policies and service as a Guardian ad Litem.

Mondello said, "Children don't choose their parents; they don't choose their genetics; they don't choose their circumstances; I feel it's our responsibility to be their voice." The award commemorates Bernie McCabe and Bob Dillinger, both of whom served two decades on the JWB board.

Kay Dillinger recalled that her late husband reviewed nominations for the award shortly before his death. She noted that he submitted his rankings even in a weakened state and that Mondello's work particularly impressed him.

The agency also posthumously honored former state Sen. Jack Latvala, whose legislative work helped place the state attorney and public defender on the board. Pinellas County Commissioner Chris Latvala accepted the award on his father's behalf.

Four frontline professionals received the KidsFirst Cooperman-Bogue Award and $1,000 each. Gena Calish was recognized for working with families to improve parenting skills and prevent child abuse. Melissa Mapes, a teacher at Gingerbread Preschool for 29 years, was honored for early childhood education work.

Christine Powell, a foster grandparent with Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay, received recognition for helping kindergarten students at Maximo Elementary School develop reading skills. Pinellas County Sheriff's Deputy Anthony Borbonio was honored for community policing work in High Point, where he connects families with neighborhood resources and support. Two students, Tatiana Mansfield and Savannah Starcher, received H. Browning Spence Education Scholarships to support their academic and career goals.