Peter Welch: “today I am proud to celebrate Melissa Appleton, a true champion for children, families, and the future of…”

“today I am proud to celebrate Melissa Appleton, a true champion for children, families, and the future of post-permanency support. As a leader in the Post-Permanency Program at Lund, Melissa's impact on the lives of children and families in Vermont is truly unmatched. With nearly two decades of experience providing exceptional post-permanency services, Melissa brings a rare combination of clinical expertise, ethical leadership, and compassionate advocacy to her work as Lund's post-permanency services coordinator. Her initiative, insight, and deep commitment to family-centered practices ensure that the Lund Post-Permanency Program remains a model of excellence. Vermonters praise Melissa for the support and empowerment she provides. For that reason alone, she is a wonderful nominee for the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute's Angels in Adoption honor. But it is also Melissa's extraordinary commitment to empowering diversity and inclusion through her work and at the recommendation of those who have witnessed her dedication that I submit her name for this honor today. Under Melissa's value-driven guidance, staff are encouraged to grow, reflect, and lead. Melissa's tireless commitment to making life better for children in need is further evident in her advocacy to secure additional funding and support for the post-permanency programs in Vermont.”