Child Protection Center Honors Doug and Sherry Chapman as 2025 Child Advocates of the Year

The Child Protection Center (CPC) proudly presented its prestigious Child Advocate of the Year Award to the late Doug and Sherry Chapman. This heartfelt tribute recognized the Chapmans' unwavering commitment, visionary philanthropy, and profound impact on the lives of children affected by abuse.
 
Introduced to CPC through a friend, the Chapmans quickly became passionate ambassadors for the organization's mission. Upon learning the staggering reality of child abuse in their community, Doug and Sherry committed themselves fully to being part of the solution. “We were taken back by the number of cases,” they once said. “We soon learned if anything, the need for help was understated.”
 
Their legacy includes the creation of the Sharyn Chapman Endowment in 2018 through the Gulf Coast Community Foundation—a significant contribution that continues to provide long-term sustainability for CPC programs.
 
Beyond financial contributions, the Chapmans gave generously of their time and creativity. Sherry authored two books of humorous wisdom for seniors—Age with a Giggle and Put Your Teeth in Honey, You’re Not Dead Yet!—donating all proceeds to charity. Wanting to bring comfort directly to the survivors of child abuse at CPC, she made countless fleece blankets for clients to keep and cherish. She also served on the organization’s Advisory Committee. Doug, a retired CEO who was known for his strategic insight and mentorship, offered invaluable guidance and encouragement to CPC leadership that helped shape the organization’s growth and direction.
 
This dedication was made at this year’s Blue Ties & Butterflies Gala. During the ceremony, CPC shared one of Sherry’s memorable quotes: “Life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes. So don’t waste even a day.” Guests were invited to raise a glass in honor of the Chapmans and to carry forward their spirit of advocacy, compassion, and generosity. Doug and Sherry’s family accepted the award in their honor.
 
“Doug and Sherry Chapman brought transformational change to CPC and the children we serve,” said Douglas Staley, Executive Director of CPC. “Their legacy will continue to shine brightly as an example of what it means to be true child advocates.”
 
The Child Protection Center’s (CPC) mission is the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse, as the organization envisions a community where children are safe from abuse and free to thrive. For 45 years, CPC has been serving Sarasota and DeSoto Counties in the State of Florida and is accredited by the National Children’s Alliance. For more information on CPC or to inquire about ways to get involved, please visit them at  www.cpcsarasota.org or call 941-365-1277.