Charlie Trotter to be Awarded 2009 ‘Spirit of Youth’ Award

The National Runaway Switchboard recognizing renowned chef for his support of runaway and at-risk youth.

CHICAGO (February 24, 2009) —Chef Charlie Trotter is being honored with the 2009 “Spirit of Youth” award from the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) for his work and dedication in helping America’s runaway and at-risk youth. The announcement was made Tuesday evening at NRS’ Spirit of Youth Launch Party in Chicago.

Chef Trotter has been a supporter of NRS and its mission to keep America’s runaway and at-risk youth safe and off the streets. Last year, he helped raise more than $18,000 for NRS and awareness of its 1-800-RUNAWAY hotline. Additionally, Trotter has been supporting youth, including youth volunteers at NRS, through his Culinary Education Foundation and other philanthropic endeavors throughout his career.

“Chef Trotter is making a positive impact on youth. He is also a corporate philanthropic leader—a champion in giving back,” said Maureen Blaha, NRS executive director. “This award is an example of how socially-conscience he is in helping today’s young people.”

Chef Trotter will be presented with the Spirit of Youth award on Friday, Nov. 13, 2009, in Chicago. The annual event raises awareness and funds for NRS programs and services that focus on prevention and reuniting runaway and at-risk youth with their families throughout the country.

The National Runaway Switchboard, established in 1971, serves as the federally-designated national communication system for homeless and runaway youth. Recognized as the oldest hotline of its kind in the world, NRS, with the support of more than 150 volunteers, handles an average of 100,000 calls annually – more than 3 million calls since the organization’s inception. NRS provides crisis intervention, referrals to local resources, and education and prevention services to youth, families and community members throughout the country 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Over 13,000 youth have been reunited with their families through the NRS Home Free program done in collaboration with Greyhound Lines, Inc. The NRS crisis hotline is 1-800-RUNAWAY. For more information, visit http://www.1800RUNAWAY.org.

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