STATE HUMAN SERVICES DIRECTOR HONORED FOR PROTECTING HAWAI`I'S CHILDREN FROM ABUSE, NEGLECT

March 30 - "It is good to see someone rewarded for their passion and positive results," Governor Lingle said at a reception to recognize Lillian Koller, director of the Department of Human Services (DHS).  Koller was recently selected to receive the 2007 Commissioner's Award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration on Children, Youth and Families for her outstanding achievements in the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect.  Under Koller's leadership, DHS has expanded healthcare for needy adults and children, helped clients make the transformation from welfare to the workforce, enhanced child welfare services, and made government more transparent and accountable by releasing records to help locate missing children.

In order to raise awareness about the harmful effects of child abuse and encourage parents and caregivers to raise their children in a stable and loving environment, Governor Lingle and Lt. Governor Aiona have proclaimed April as "Child Abuse Prevention Month" in the State of Hawai`i. Read the proclamation.