Florida is a hub for the commercial sale of children for sex. This hotline can help those who are being forced into this modern-day slavery, but only if people know it exists. Look up your state legislators and call them now to ask them to support these important bills.

FFCR Immediate Past President Jean Bell toasts new President Daniele Lomoriello

"Florida Foster Care Review has been so lucky to benefit from Jean's experience and dedication over the past several years. Under her watch, we developed a new strategic plan to better help abused and neglected children and began turning the plan into reality, starting with the Permanency Roundtable Program," said Candice Maze. "We also developed a new database, improved internal management and quality assurance procedures and significantly increased funding. The results of Jean's leadership shine through every day."

In her professional life, Jean serves as Senior Vice President and Senior Credit Products Manager of Global Commercial Banking for Bank of America Merrill Lynch (Bank of America, N.A / Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc.). Jean will continue as an FFCR director.

Newly elected President Daniele brings his experience as Vice President for Goldman Properties, where he oversees the Hospitality Division and Human Resources. His dedication to helping children and youth in foster care is evidenced by his actions: he's a former guardian ad litem and FFCR volunteer. Daniele feels that as president, he'll have the opportunity to contribute further to the advancement of the organization's mission.

"We wholeheartedly welcome Daniele to this post," said Executive Director Maze. "I am confident that he will build on Jean's strong leadership and the foundation she laid. I can't wait to see what FFCR is able to accomplish as we take it to the next level during his tenure."

Clockwise from top left: FFCR staff Annaleah Krenn & Kendra Copeland; Judge Spencer Eig & Rita Baez, Esq.; FFCR Executive Director Candice Maze with FFCR Board VP MaryAnn Lukacs, Esq. & the Hon. Rosa Figarola; Carolyn "Kioni" Nesbitt from Concerned African Women, Inc. with Marta Vega from the Thurston Group (also Maxine's Closet Host Committee member); and Kelly Penton-Chacon, Maxine's Closet Host Committee member with Sarah Manzano.

The evening included cocktails provided by Just Quality Wines and Biscayne Bay Brewing and lite bites courtesy of Catering By Lovables and Joanna's Marketplace. In keeping with FFCR's mission and with Maxine's tradition of giving back, guests were encouraged to bring new or gently used handbags and shoes for Dress for Success.

Thank you all for making the night possible! Every effort you made - whether serving on the host committee, attending, donating or sponsoring this event - was a testament to Maxine's life and the love we share for her. Thank you for the memories and for your support of FFCR's work. 

Photos from Maxine's Closet

As Professor Rosen says, "We make a difference in the lives of the kids. It's always amazing what a different set of eyes can do. The panel can look at the child and suggest things that are obvious to us, but may not be to others involved in the case."

The CRP also benefits from the varied areas of expertise and professional qualifications that FFCR's volunteers bring to the table. In addition to his J.D. from Harvard Law School and years teaching at the University of Miami School of Law, Professor Rosen holds a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of California at Berkeley.

To all those thinking of joining the CRP as a volunteer, Professor Rosen says... Do it! He feels like he positively impacts the lives of children when he volunteers each month on the CRP, and has greatly enjoyed working with people from different professional backgrounds over the years. Thanks for your ongoing service, Professor Rosen!