The Marshalltown Federation of Women’s Clubs (MFWC), in collaboration with Marshalltown Area United Way, Marshalltown Chamber of Commerce, and the Historical Society of Marshall County, is delighted to announce the selection of Heidi Williams, Woodbury Elementary School Counselor, for the 1st Annual Jessie Binford Advocate for Youth Award. The purpose of this award is to recognize, celebrate, and encourage people in the Marshall County area who make a significant positive difference in the lives of youth, particularly those in need of an advocate for social justice. Williams exhibits all those qualities and more.
Williams was nominated by Woodbury Elementary Principal Anel Garza. In Garza’s nomination letter, she shared, “Heidi Williams has been an extraordinary advocate for the students and families of Woodbury Elementary and the greater Marshalltown community. As a dedicated school counselor, she continually goes above and beyond her duties to ensure that every student receives the care and support they need, whether through her professional responsibilities or voluntary outreach efforts.
Heidi’s advocacy for youth is evident in the wide range of services she provides. She offers critical support through small group sessions tailored to the needs of various student populations, such as new arrivals to the country, children with incarcerated parents, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. These groups create a safe space for students to express their feelings, learn coping strategies, and build resilience in challenging times.
In addition to her group work, Heidi offers one-on-one counseling to students facing unique family needs. Her commitment to supporting the well-being of every student extends far beyond the walls of the school. She regularly makes home visits, even on evenings and weekends, to connect with families and ensure they have access to the resources they need. Whether it's linking families to social services, mental health support, or other agencies in Marshalltown, Heidi is always looking for ways to better serve her community.
Heidi’s dedication to understanding the cultural and mental health needs of Marshalltown's diverse population sets her apart. She invests time in learning about different cultures and how mental health is perceived within them, allowing her to provide more culturally sensitive care to students and their families. Her knowledge and expertise in Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), an evidence-based approach to managing behavioral needs, further demonstrates her commitment to making a lasting impact. She even extends her knowledge to parents, offering CPS courses to help families better manage behavioral challenges at home.
What makes Heidi’s work truly special is the deep and lasting impact she has on the students and families she serves. Many staff members and students return to Woodbury or seek her out after moving to other schools or graduating, expressing their gratitude for the support she provided during their most formative years. She is also a foster parent, further demonstrating her dedication to helping children in need.
Heidi Williams embodies the spirit of the Jessie Binford Advocate for Youth Award. Her unwavering commitment, tireless advocacy, and profound empathy make her a champion for all students in Marshalltown. Her efforts are not only effective but transformative, touching the lives of countless children and families.”
Jessie Binford was born in Marshalltown in 1876, and her lifelong passion was advocating for children. As stated in the Des Moines Register following her death in 1966, “In her six decades as a social worker and juvenile rights advocate, Miss Binford battled with local and state politicians in what she called a crusade aimed at the delinquency of adults against children.”
Jessie was active in the organization of the Legal Aid Society in Chicago, which later became the Juvenile Protection Association, and served as its Executive Director for 43 years. Jessie was a longtime associate of Jane Addams, founder of Chicago’s Hull House. Jessie Binford worked for 61 years as a social worker and advocate for the poor. She was truly an outstanding native daughter.
This award aims to honor Jessie’s legacy by recognizing people in the Marshall County area who are continuing this work locally. In addition to providing public recognition of those advocating for youth in Marshall county, this award is intended to elevate the community’s awareness of the accomplishments of Jessie Binford and the causes she championed.
This award will be given annually to a Marshall County resident or to someone who works in or serves Marshall County, who has demonstrated commitment to and effectiveness in advocating for children, regardless of their socioeconomic status and cultural background.
Nominees this year included several worthy individuals engaged in a professional or a volunteer role as an advocate for youth and included staff or volunteers of nonprofit agencies that serve youth. Nominees not selected in a given year will be retained for future consideration.