Child care professionals in Richmond County will be honored at the 9th Annual Child Care Provider Appreciation Banquet on May 10. The event, which is presented by the Richmond County Partnership for Children, is set for 6:30 p.m. in the Cole Auditorium at Richmond Community College.

“The banquet is an opportunity for our community to recognize the outstanding child care professionals and facilities in Richmond County,” said Martha Vance Brown, executive director of the Partnership. “Parents frequently tell us how important their child care provider is to them and their children; now they can tell the public just how important their teacher or facility is.”

Four awards will be given to centers and individuals nominated for outstanding service:

Bernice Ratliff Outstanding Teacher Award

Kathy Alexander Positive Attitude Award.

Child Care Center of the Year

Family Child Care Home of the Year

Parents are encouraged to nominate facilities or individuals deserving the awards. Nominations should include the award name, person being nominated, if applicable, facility and nominator’s name. Nominations are due on April 23. Nominations should be mailed to Richmond County Partnership for Children, PO Box 1944, Rockingham, NC 28380.

Child care teachers also will be honored for their continuing educational achievements during the year.

For more information on the awards, contact Michell Kocan at (901) 997-3773.