Pinellas County: 80 Years of Child Welfare Focus

The Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County marked its 80th anniversary on November 2 by focusing on the individuals who execute its mission. The organization held a luncheon in St. Petersburg to honor staff, officials, and partners who have supported the board’s work over the past eight decades.

Karen Boggess, the board’s interim CEO, framed the milestone as a community decision made eight decades ago. She stated that the county chose to invest in children’s futures to benefit everyone. Boggess noted that the people who turn this commitment into action daily strengthen families and build communities.

The event centered on the Dillinger-McCabe Putting Children First Leadership Award. This honor recognizes the legacies of Bob Dillinger and Bernie McCabe. Both men served 20 years on the board’s directors. Dillinger was the former Pinellas-Pasco public defender, while McCabe was the former state attorney for the same region.

Keli Mondello received the primary award for her work with lawmakers on early literacy and achievement gaps. She also served as a Guardian ad Litem for abused and neglected children. Mondello co-founded LiFT, a Clearwater school for individuals with neurodiversity. She said she felt it was a responsibility to be a voice for children who do not choose their parents or circumstances.

Denise McCabe, Bernie’s widow, praised Mondello’s devotion to neurodivergent children. She said the award honors leaders following in the footsteps of her husband and Dillinger. Kay Dillinger, Bob’s widow, noted that reviewing nominations was among the last tasks her husband completed. She said Bob was inspired by Mondello’s vision and would have been proud to present the award.

The board also posthumously presented the leadership award to Jack Latvala. The former state senator championed legislation that added the state attorney and public defender to the JWB board. Chris Latvala, Jack’s son, accepted the honor on his father’s behalf.

Four individuals received the 2026 KidsFirst Cooperman-Bogue Award. Each recipient received $1,000 for their service to the community. Gena Calish is an in-home specialist who works with families to prevent abuse and neglect. Melissa Mapes is a teacher with 29 years of experience at Gingerbread Preschool.

Christine Powell serves as a foster grandparent with Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay. She helps kindergarteners at Maximo Elementary with literacy skills. Deputy Anthony Borbonio of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Community Policing Unit was also recognized. He builds trust in the High Point community and connects families with resources.

The luncheon included two education scholarships. Teenagers Tatiana Mansfield and Savannah Starcher received H. Browning Spence Education Scholarships. The event concluded with the recognition of these local figures who work directly with children in the county.