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NOVEMBER 18, 2009
CONTACT: GOVERNOR'S PRESS OFFICE (850) 488-5394
Governor Crist Names Matthew Straeb of Fort Lauderdale as Governor's Point of Light for Adoption Awareness MonthTALLAHASSEE - Governor Charlie Crist today recognized Matthew Straeb of Fort Lauderdale as this week's Governor's Point of Light for Adoption Awareness Month. "Matt's outstanding and passionate work on a local level has helped shine a spotlight on the importance of adoption in South Florida," said Governor Charlie Crist. "Matt is a tireless advocate, graciously lending his voice and energy to this very important cause both locally and nationally."
In September 2006, Matthew founded the Heart Gallery of Broward
in response to the need he observed in his community for this service.
During its short tenure, Heart Gallery of Broward has achieved an
above-average success rate of 40 percent, having already helped place 48
children in loving, permanent homes. Recognizing the benefits a national
network of Heart Galleries could have, he helped establish and organize the
Heart Gallery of America in August 2008. As president of the national
organization, Matt leads this group to share resources and broaden the pool
of families seeking to adopt. The Heart Gallery of America, comprised of
100 individual heart galleries, also launched
AAA Auto Club South is the supporting sponsor of the Governor's
Points of Light Award. This program recognizes Florida residents who
demonstrate exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are
announced weekly. A panel of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of
volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations
to the Governor. Occasionally, the award is presented to outstanding
organizations. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program. For
more information, or to submit a nomination, go to
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