Board Member Judge Cohen Named Champion for Children

May 4, 2022 | Evident Change

Judge Jeri Beth Cohen

Judge Jeri Beth Cohen, an Evident Change board member, received the Outstanding Champion for Children award from Florida’s Children First, a youth advocacy nonprofit group.

Recently retired from her role as a circuit court judge in the Dependency and Criminal Drug Court Divisions in Miami-Dade County, Judge Cohen was recognized for her years of service, commitment, and passion for improving the lives of children and families involved in the court system. This includes her pioneering work establishing the first Dependency Drug Court in Florida for parents who lose custody of children due to addiction or untreated mental illness.

Judge Cohen is regarded as a trailblazer for incorporating family-centered interventions and parenting programs into the child dependency law arena. She has a deep understanding of the connection between mental health and addiction, noting the destructive force it has on parents, children, and society. The framework she established will continue to impact future generations. 

The Board of Directors and staff of Evident Change congratulate Judge Cohen for receiving this honor and are grateful for her ongoing willingness to share her expertise as a member of our board.