Fort Lauderdale, Florida 05/14/2009 - Fort Lauderdale Country Club - There are a few special individuals whose very presence transforms the lives of their neighbors - and Chuck Pisciotta is one of them. He has dedicated 30 years of his life towards fundraising for challenged children. Each year, The Kate Platt Child Advocate of the Year Award is given to an individual whose achievements and career contributions have made a significant difference. At the reception, Chancellor Fred Lippman of Nova University read the proclamations from the Mayor of the City of Plantation and from the Commissioners of the County of Broward. The Chancellor said, "This achievement is so special, that we declare this Chuck Pisciotta Day".

Celebrity Chi Chi Rodriguez said, "Today may be Chuck Pisciotta Day, but everyday is Chuck Pisciotta Day for me. Over 22 years, Chuck has helped me grow my youth foundation. Chuck is my friend and a superstar - as there many kids who have been literally saved by his good work and generosity".

Chuck concluded the reception by saying, "You have said in many ways this evening that I have touched the lives of so many kids. However, they have touched my life even more. Thank you so much for making me feel special tonight".

Chuck is Director at the global firm of KPMG and Board member for the non-profit organization, HANDY (Helping Abused Neglected Disadvantaged Youth).

HANDY (www.HANDYInc.org) touches the lives of 3,000 parentless children each year and is one of the most successful safety nets in the country. HANDY was nationally ranked in 2008 for the second consecutive year by Charity Navigator.

The Chi Chi Rodriguez (www.ChiChi.org) was established 30 years ago as one of the first Public Private Partnerships in the country. Designated by the President of the United States as one of the Thousand Points of Life, the Foundation's school, the game of golf and the principles of celebrity golfer Chi Chi himself transform the lives of so many challenged children into the most exceptional adults.

The Kate Plate Award (http://www.nova.edu/forekids/award.html) along with Dr. Deborah Mulligan's passion are most effective for child advocacy and improving the world.

The Fort Lauderdale Country Club (www.FortLauderdaleCC.com) and the special General Manager, Michael O'Brien are rare gems at this private and exclusive club established in 1926.

Charity Navigator (www.CharityNavigator.org) is the leading national agency who evaluates the performance of non-profits, so donors know where to invest their dollars.