Nominate an Outstanding Child Care Professional

On May 8, 2026, we will observe Child Care & Early Childhood Professionals Day to celebrate the child care workforce for its dedicated service to Virginia families. In recognition of this important day, Child Care Aware of Virginia (CCAoVA) honors one outstanding child care provider who has dedicated their career to supporting children and families with the Sharon R. Veatch Heart of Service Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes longevity and overall excellence in the field, with 20+ years of service, and a demonstrated commitment to a career of caring for children.

Please consider submitting this nomination form to honor an outstanding provider who has made a difference in your life and your community. Nominees must work in a legally operating, state-regulated child care center or family day home (ex. Licensed, Religiously Exempt, Voluntarily Registered, Locally Permitted). Staff of Child Care Aware of Virginia or Regional Child Care Resources Centers are not eligible to receive this award. Nominations submitted without a photo will not be considered. The winner will be voted on by CCAoVA staff based on the most compelling nomination submission(s) that demonstrate a lifetime commitment to the child care and early childhood field.

Please include a photo of your nominee with your completed form. If you can't attach a picture with this form, please submit the photo of your nominee via email to smccrum@vachildcare.com. Please include HOS 2026 and the name of your nominee in the subject line of your message ex. HOS 2026 – Jane Smith.

Forms and photo are both requested to complete the nomination process.

Nominations will close on April 13, 2026 at 12:00 am.

Child Care Aware of Virginia neither endorses nor recommends any nominated or winning individual or facility.

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* 1. Name of nominee

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* 2. How many years has your nominee been caring for children?

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* 3. Type of program nominee works in?

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* 4. Age group nominee cares for? (check all that apply)

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* 5. In a paragraph or less, tell us why your nominee deserves to win the Heart of Service Lifetime Achievement Award.

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* 6. Describe your nominee in one sentence.

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* 7. What is your relationship to the nominee?

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* 8. Please provide the email and phone number for the program where your nominee works. This should be the best contact information for reaching the nominee.

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* 9. Your contact information

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* 10. Please submit a photo of your nominee. A photo is required for the nomination to be considered.

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