Recently, Together Georgia Provider Alliance, Inc. presented Bloom Our Youth Board President, Jack Middleton, with the Friend of Children Award at the Georgia Conference on Children and Families in Augusta, GA. Presented by Judge Juanita Stedman, Executive Director of Together Georgia, this award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond for the sake of children in their community.

Stedman described how Middleton has been a catalyst for change for countless foster children through his involvement with Bloom Our Youth, otherwise known as Bloom, a foster care agency and support organization in Georgia.

“Bloom would not be where it is today without the passion and support of Jack Middleton,” comments Becky Davenport, Bloom Executive Director. “Through his leadership abilities, kind spirit and passion for our cause, Bloom has been able to realize its vision for foster children all across the state. Indeed, Jack Middleton is a best friend of children.”

Middleton became involved with Bloom over 10 years ago when he was recruited for Bloom's Board of Directors because of his reputation in the community as a leader, and his position as CEO of SMC3, a worldwide transportation logistics company, where he was a force for change. In 2014, when Bloom needed to expand its facilities in order to meet the growing demand for services at The Bloom Closet, a free clothing resource center for foster children, Middleton stepped in and mobilized the organization’s dream for expansion. Middleton secured funds from the SMC3 Board of Directors to acquire and renovate a 9,000 square foot building. Because of Middleton’s vision, dedication, and tireless advocacy for the children, The Bloom Closet now annually serves more than 3,000 foster children from 90 Georgia counties.