Avivo recognized by FamilyWise for strengthening families

Avivo recognized with award for strengthening families during National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Avivo is honored to be named one of seven statewide recipients of FamilyWise Services’ 2026 Pinwheels for Prevention Award, a recognition aligned with National Child Abuse Prevention Month each April. The award highlights organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to building safe, healthy, and supportive environments for children and families across Minnesota.

FamilyWise Services, a Minnesota agency known for child abuse prevention and home to Prevent Child Abuse Minnesota, emphasizes collaboration as a core driver of prevention work. “Our community partners across the state are pivotal to our prevention work,” said Ann Gaasch, Chief Executive Officer of FamilyWise Services. “By partnering with collaborative efforts, together we can build supportive communities for Minnesota families. The Pinwheels for Prevention Awards honor organizations for their work with families and their contributions to the wellbeing of Minnesota children.”

“Our community partners across the state are pivotal to our prevention work,” said Ann Gaasch, Chief Executive Officer of FamilyWise Services. “By partnering with collaborative efforts, together we can build supportive communities for Minnesota families. The Pinwheels for Prevention Awards honor organizations for their work with families and their contributions to the wellbeing of Minnesota children.”

Avivo was nominated by Melody Her, FamilyWise’s Wraparound Manager, who highlighted the organization’s integrated approach to supporting youth and families. “Avivo increases well-being through recovery and career advancement while working to end homelessness,” Her shared in her nomination. “They provide education and training, recovery and mental health support, and they prepare people for employment and success. Avivo partners with youth by exploring their areas of interest and giving practical skills through resume support and mock interviews.”

This recognition reflects Avivo’s long-standing commitment to ensuring that families have access to the resources, stability, and opportunities they need to thrive.

“Avivo is honored to be recognized by FamilyWise for our work helping families and contributing to the wellbeing of Minnesota children,” said Kelly Matter, President & CEO of Avivo.

“Avivo is honored to be recognized by FamilyWise for our work helping families and contributing to the wellbeing of Minnesota children,” said Kelly Matter, President & CEO of Avivo. “At Avivo, we take a holistic approach that ensures the whole family can heal together. More than 35,000 children were served or impacted by our programs in 2025, including those programs which help promote employment and career advancement.”

As Avivo celebrates this acknowledgment, the organization remains focused on its mission: increasing well-being through recovery and career advancement while working to end homelessness.

Read the FamilyWise blog about this award, which highlights details of all seven organizations being recognized.

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