CAPS Honored Tuscaloosa Mayor, Radio Leader with “Champion of Children” Award

Mayor Walt Maddox and a Tuscaloosa radio leader were the recipients of the Champion of Children Award at the 2023 Blue Ribbon Gala hosted by Child Abuse Prevention Services.

The annual fundraiser was held Friday evening and honors community leaders who work to provide resources to improve the lives of children in Tuscaloosa. David DuBose, the chief revenue officer of Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa, was also honored during the event.

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Maddox was awarded for his contribution and investment in the Tuscaloosa Pre-K Initiative which under his leadership, has raised over $325,000 to support the cause through the annual Mayor's Cup 5K for Pre-K race.

"I am very undeserving of something like this," Maddox said. "Hopefully my life's mission of public service has been one of honor and making a difference and hopefully, my time as mayor has been one where I've leaned towards those who are most vulnerable, especially our children. I take great pride in being recognized."

DuBose was awarded for his leadership and support of the Rising Star Character Student of the Month partnership with Tuscaloosa City Schools, which was created to highlight students who demonstrate good character inside their schools and community.

"I am honored and humbled to receive this award," DuBose said. "We see so much negative coverage about things going on now with our youth so we decided we needed to recognize kids that were doing the right thing and that's how the Rising Star awards concept was born."

DuBose said the program has been so successful that the partnership is expanding to include the Tuscaloosa County School System next school year.

Stay connected with the Tuscaloosa Thread for future updates on programs and initiatives happening in and around the Druid City.

Author's Note: David DuBose is the market president and chief revenue officer of Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa, the parent company of the Tuscaloosa Thread.