Maree Bullock and Jimmie Alford Receive 2012 "Spirit of Youth" Award From National Runaway Switchboard

CHICAGO, Nov. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Maree Bullock and Jimmie Alford were presented with the 2012 "Spirit of Youth" award from the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS), recognizing their work and dedication for helping to keep America's runaway, homeless and at-risk youth safe and off the streets. They are long-time NRS supporters who have been extraordinarily generous in their gifts of time and resources to NRS and the youth who depend on the organization.  The ceremony took place tonight at NRS' annual "Spirit of Youth" benefit at the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120411/DC85449LOGO) 

"From creating the Maree G. Bullock Scholarship Fund to consulting on NRS strategic planning, Maree and Jimmie have showed their ongoing support and commitment to NRS," said Maureen Blaha, NRS executive director. "We're recognizing them for that, as well as for being strong role models and leaders for NRS."

Past Spirit of Youth award recipients have included Cyndi Lauper and her True Colors Fund, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Chef Charlie Trotter, the Chicago Cubs, actors Tim Matheson and Sharon Lawrence, and Greyhound Bus Lines, Inc.

Tonight's event raised funds for NRS programs and services that benefit runaway homeless and at-risk youth and their families throughout the country.  This year's gold sponsors are Allstate, Carlton Technologies, Chicago Tribune, Greyhound Lines, Radio Flyer and United Airlines.

The National Runaway Switchboard, established in 1971, serves as the federally-designated national communication system for homeless and runaway youth. NRS, with the support of more than 150 volunteers, handles an average of 100,000 calls annually – more than 3 million calls since the organization's inception.  Through its crisis hotline (1-800-RUNAWAY) and online services (www.1800RUNAWAY.org), NRS provides crisis intervention, referrals to local resources, and education and prevention services to runaway, homeless and at-risk youth, as well as families and community members throughout the country 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. More than 14,000 youth have been reunited with their families through the NRS Home Free program done in collaboration with Greyhound Lines, Inc.  For more information, visit www.1800RUNAWAY.org.

SOURCE National Runaway Switchboard