Pam and Steve Jansa Receive First-Ever Caring Heart Award at 30th Annual Caring For The Kids Celebration
A new tradition began at Children’s Home Society’s (CHS) 30th annual Caring For The Kids celebration with the introduction of the Caring Heart Award—a special recognition honoring a dedicated contributor, volunteer and supporter of CHS who has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to CHS’s mission of preventing, treating and healing trauma. This award recognizes individuals and couples whose dedication has helped create a world where all children and families are safe, healthy and resilient.
CHS supporters Pam Taylor Jansa and her husband, Steve, accepted the award at the event held Sunday, August 3. Pam, an emeritus board member, served on both the Children’s Home Society and the Children’s Home Foundation boards for many years. During her time on the boards, Pam played a pivotal role in shaping CHS into the organization it is today.
“Pam and Steve have given so much to Children’s Home Society through their time, leadership and compassion,” said Chief Philanthropy Officer Jon Mammenga. “It is with the deepest gratitude that we present this award to them. Their impact has and will continue to be felt for generations.”
The idea for the award took shape after last year’s banquet, when CHS honored longtime advocate and emeritus board member Linda Mickelson Graham for her 30 years of game-changing service to CHS. Inspired by that tribute, CHS established the Caring Heart Award as an annual recognition for those who go above and beyond to support its mission.
Former CHS Executive Director and South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard presented the award to the Jansas. During the ceremony, he reflected on Pam’s time on the board, explaining that during the 1980s she was instrumental in building the leadership team—including hiring Daugaard as Executive Director—to help guide the organization towards long-term stability and growth.
To be eligible for the Caring Heart Award, recipients must be living and have served, or be serving, on the CHS or CHF board. Nominees must demonstrate exceptional commitment to the mission through philanthropy, volunteerism, advocacy or leadership. CHF staff select the recipient based on their legacy and support of CHS.