PRESS RELEASE: Heather Bellino Nominated for Austin Business Journal's 2023 Best CEO Awards 

Press Release

Heather Bellino Nominated for Austin Business Journal's 2023 Best CEO Awards 

AUSTIN, TX - SEPTEMBER 6, 2023 – Texas Advocacy Project (TAP) proudly announces the nomination of Heather Bellino, for the 2023 Best CEO Awards by the Austin Business Journal. This nomination recognizes Mrs. Bellino's exceptional leadership and dedication to TAP’s work of providing free civil legal and social services to survivors of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, child abuse, and human trafficking. 

Mrs. Bellino's journey with Texas Advocacy Project began as a devoted volunteer, leading to her roles as Volunteer Coordinator and later Development Director, where she played a pivotal role in securing critical funding. Her steadfast commitment ultimately propelled her into the position of CEO, where, for 10 remarkable years, she has stood as a resolute pillar within the anti-violence movement. 

Mrs. Bellino’s leadership is distinguished by innovation and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. Under her guidance, she has driven initiatives that expanded our outreach, allowing us to provide life-saving services to more survivors than ever before. Her strategic vision and dedicated mission-driven focus empower the organization to navigate formidable challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the pandemic's impact on survivors, Mrs. Bellino spearheaded the creation of a dedicated social work department, ensuring holistic, trauma-responsive case management, crisis intervention, and crucial mental health support for over 10,000 victims of abuse annually. 

Mrs. Bellino's nomination for the Austin Business Journal's 2023 Best CEO Awards recognizes her as an exemplary leader in the nonprofit sector and a tireless advocate for the rights and safety of survivors. Her leadership has not only left an indelible mark on our organization but has also ignited our entire team's commitment to our shared mission. 

The Austin Business Journal's Best CEO Awards honor leaders who exemplify excellence in their respective fields. Mrs. Bellino's nomination serves as a testament to her outstanding leadership, her dedication to Texas Advocacy Project, and her profound commitment to changing the lives of survivors of abuse. 

Texas Advocacy Project invites the Austin community and supporters from afar to join us in celebrating Mrs. Bellino's nomination for this prestigious award. Her transformative leadership has not only impacted our organization but has also furthered the vision of a Texas free from abuse. 

About Texas Advocacy Project: Texas Advocacy Project’s mission is to end dating and domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in Texas. TAP empowers survivors through free legal and social services and access to the justice system, and advances prevention through public outreach and education. Our vision is that all Texans live free from abuse. In 2022, TAP provided legal services in 4,765 cases, serving 10,502 Texans. If you or someone you know needs help, call 800-374-HOPE or visit TexasAdvocacyProject.org.                                                 

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