Traci Sigel Israel
Child Advocacy
Advocating for the needs of foster children in Palm Beach County is a cause that is dear to Traci Sigel Israel’s heart.
As Development & Community Outreach Manager for Speak Up for Kids, she is passionate about amplifying the voices of children.
“My background is in public relations. I want to use my voice for these vulnerable children,” explains Sigel Israel, a native South Floridian who lives in Boca Raton. “It’s important that the foster children have our support. Many times, they’re abruptly taken from their homes with so little, it’s heartbreaking.”
“Speak Up for Kids helps provide consistency in their lives and looks to meet their individual needs.That could be dance or soccer lessons, an iPad, or a backpack with necessities. Everybody has their own superpower and can help,” she says. “As a community, we’re stronger partnering together and are superheroes in our own right.”
One of Sigel Israel’s favorite fundraisers is the Annual Winterfest celebration, to be held on Dec. 14, 2024. Last year’s event was combined with their yearly Toy Drive and Wrap Party because of inclement weather.
“We had toys — a little of everything. Everyone in the community rallied together. It was a beautiful thing,” she points out. “It’s for the kids, but there are volunteer and sponsorship opportunities.”
We are fortunate to live in this amazing county. The community’s strength lies in lending a hand to one another. The organization’s many programs and events are a great way for the community to help, she says. The Denim & Diamonds Gala, on April 26, 2025, is another notable fundraiser.
“The 8th Annual StoryBook Village, on March 9, 2025, at Mounts Botanical Gardens, is amazing. We bring the stories to life!” Sigel Israel explains.
“You can donate, attend or sponsor an event, or do a collection,” Sigel Israel adds.
Speak Up for Kids empowers the community to get involved by becoming an ambassador or volunteering. Students are encouraged to join or start one of the organization’s 14 (and growing) student-led chapters in Palm Beach schools, who helped create such projects as the online Life-Skills Portal, supporting kids aging out of the foster system.
“The kids are the true superheroes. It’s heartwarming to know we all have the power to change a child’s life and break the cycles of abuse and neglect,” Sigel Israel expresses. “You help one child, you change the world.”
Speak Up for Kids of Palm Beach County, Inc., 205 N. Dixie Highway, Ste. 2.211, West Palm Beach, 561-408-7779, speakupforkidspbc.org
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