The United Methodist Association (UMA) recently named The Baby Fold’s President and CEO Dale Strassheim as Child, Youth, and Family Services Administrator of the Year.
The award was announced on March 6 during the UMA’s 70th National Convention in Burlingame, Calif.
The UMA, a national body which oversees the health and welfare ministries of the United Methodist Church, cited Strassheim’s resourcefulness and consistent dedication to the well-being of children and families. The award committee also recognized Strassheim for his foundational involvement in the Illinois Great Rivers Alliance, a group of five Illinois-based United Methodist agencies who have formed a Limited Liability Company to work together to share resources common to the agencies.
“I am deeply humbled, not for my own recognition but for the acknowledgment of The Baby Fold’s supportive Board and the employees who do amazing work, day-in and day-out,” said Strassheim. “This award reflects the dedication of our staff who truly love children, and are enriching and transforming lives every day. It is so rewarding to work with a group of people who live out the mission of the agency so vividly.”
UMA is a national network of approximately 400 healthcare and human service organizations. UMA provides its members with education, accreditation, networking, communication and business services while keeping with the rich, historical Wesleyan traditions and practices of the United Methodist denomination.
The Baby Fold is a non-profit child and family service organization that serves over 1,000 children and families every year. The organization offers professional services in the areas of adoption, foster care, pregnancy counseling, specialized education, residential treatment, family support and counseling, and operates Horizons Counseling.