State official receives federal child welfare award

State Human Services Director Lillian Koller has been selected to receive the 2007 Administration on Children, Youth and Families Commissioner's Award for Hawaii.

The award from the federal government honors recipients for their exceptional contribution to the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect in their state or territory.

"Winning this award would not have been possible without the hard work of DHS staff and the commitment of the entire Lingle-Aiona administration, the Legislature and our community partners," Koller said. "Because of everyone's contributions, we are helping our keiki lead happier, safer lives."

The award recognizes Koller for reducing by 30 percent the number of children removed from their homes, increasing access to community-based services for families with children and improving the skills and qualifications of Child Welfare Services staff and foster families.

Koller more than doubled the money allocated to community-based services for vulnerable families with children through previously untapped federal foster care, Medicaid and welfare funds.

Koller will be presented the award at the 16th National Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect April 16-21 in Portland, Ore.

The Administration on Children, Youth and Families is a part of the Administration for Children and Families under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is administered by a commissioner who is a presidential appointee.