Today the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB) celebrated a milestone for inclusion, officially receiving its Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) during a community event in Clearwater.

The designation means JWB staff have completed specialized training to better understand and support autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals—helping ensure the children and families they serve feel welcomed and understood.

“As an organization dedicated to the health and safety of children in Pinellas County, we were excited to partner with IBCCES to earn our Certified Autism Center™ credential,” said Michael Mikurak, interim CEO of the Juvenile Welfare Board. “This training gives our team the tools to better connect with children who are autistic or have sensory sensitivities, while also deepening our understanding of the unique needs of their families and caregivers. It inspires us to create experiences where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.”

The recognition comes just as Autism Acceptance Month begins April 1. JWB is now the second organization in Clearwater to earn the CAC designation. To receive certification, at least 80 percent of staff must complete specialized autism and sensory training. JWB went above that standard, with 94 percent of staff fulfilling the training requirements.

“By becoming a Certified Autism Center™, the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County is taking a powerful step toward ensuring that every child and family they serve feels understood, supported, and included,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “This certification reflects JWB’s dedication to building a community where neurodiversity is recognized and embraced. The impact will extend far beyond individual programs and strengthen the entire community by creating more accessible, compassionate services for the families who rely on them.”

To support inclusivity efforts, the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. This app provides individuals with a variety of disabilities real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces, and tailored recommendations. By connecting users to accessible locations worldwide, the app helps ensure seamless, enjoyable experiences for everyone.

JWB already supports a range of programs that embrace neurodiverse children across Pinellas County. Through partnerships with organizations such as Learning Empowered, Suncoast Center, PARC, R’Club, and The Children’s Home Network, JWB funds early childhood services, specialized learning programs, and caregiver support—ensuring families have access to resources that foster growth, inclusion, and long-term success.

The certificate was presented at Learning Independence for Tomorrow (LiFT), a Clearwater nonprofit and school that empowers students with neurodiversity through academics, life skills, and career training. As the first organization in the city to earn the CAC designation, LiFT served as a fitting backdrop for the celebration, highlighting a growing local commitment to creating environments where neurodiverse individuals can learn, thrive, and succeed.

“Having people who understand how you learn really makes a difference,” said John Oureilidis, a senior at LiFT who plans to study Educational Development at St. Petersburg College after graduation. “Seeing JWB take this step shows they care about students like me and want to help us succeed.”

“LiFT is proud to partner with JWB and IBCCES to create a more inclusive community,” said Matt Spence, LiFT Executive Director. “When organizations come together to recognize and meet the needs of neurodiverse children, it sends a powerful message: every child belongs, and every family matters. With JWB achieving CAC status, more children in our community will have those life-changing experiences every day.”

JWB’s certification also complements a community-led effort to explore the possibility of Clearwater becoming an Autism Certified City™. If pursued, the designation would include specialized staff training to help ensure that families with autistic or sensory-sensitive children feel supported across schools, healthcare providers, attractions, and community spaces.

Enjoy a few photos from the event here, and stay tuned to our social media as we share more posts throughout the month as we celebrate Autism Awareness Month. Like and follow @JWBPinellas on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

On this Safer Internet Day (Feb. 10), the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB) reminds all parents, grandparents, and caregivers that today’s children are immersed in a digital world where devices drive their learning, play, and social lives, fundamentally reshaping their reality and drastically shifting how they experience childhood. However, this environment also presents significant challenges and evolving dangers.

Cyberbullies, human traffickers, and online predators can enter homes 24/7 through a child’s phone, computer, or gaming device. Left unchecked, it’s as risky as leaving a child’s bedroom window open or your front door unlocked.

“There’s a growing gap between what parents know about technology and how their children actually use it,” stated Michael Mikurak, Interim CEO of the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB). “Studies tell us that kids average 8 to 11 hours on their devices each day, and online crimes against children are up as well. That’s why JWB launched a groundbreaking initiative to safeguard children online and equip families with vital support.”

As we mark Safer Internet Day—and in a historic first for the nation—JWB is leading the way by removing all barriers and providing free Parent ProTech subscriptions to every Pinellas County household, ensuring universal access to critical online safety resources.

Parent ProTech’s vast online library includes expert-backed guides, videos, conversation starters, and safety recommendations on topics like parental controls, social media, AI, and more. Plus, their experts tirelessly scan the digital horizon, delivering timely and dynamic videos that move as fast as technology does—all to help parents make the internet safer for their kids.

Research consistently shows a strong link between cyberbullying, online harassment, and youth suicide; that’s why JWB added Parent ProTech to our Children’s Mental Health Initiative to help protect children, reduce stigmas, and instill a sense of well-being and belonging.

“JWB has invested Pinellas County tax dollars to protect kids online and help pave a safer path through the internet for the next generation,” continued Mikurak. “If we can prevent even one child from being cyberbullied, trapped by screen addiction, or targeted by online predators, we’ve succeeded!”

Pinellas County Residents, access your free Parent ProTech subscription on Safer Internet Day and start using expert-led video guides and resources today!

Sign up at app.parentprotech.com/jwb

“Stranger Danger” Has Moved Online

• 500,000 predators are active online daily.
• 800,000 sex offenders are known and registered in the U.S. – 1,800 in Pinellas County alone.
• 1,000 counts of child pornography were investigated by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office last year.
• A child’s first exposure to pornography online starts as young as 5!
• Children average 8 to 11 hours on devices daily—even higher during school breaks. Yet, studies show that spending just three (3) hours online doubles their risk of depression and anxiety.
• The U.S. has seen a significant increase in youth suicide, with rates among children aged 10 to 14 increasing by 95% between 2000 and 2018—making suicide the second leading cause of death for youth. This spike has occurred concurrently with increased online and social media use and has been declared a “Youth Mental Health Crisis” by the U.S. Surgeon General.

JWB Board Members, leadership, and staff have spent the last week celebrating the good news that two local legal legends, formidable leaders on the JWB Board, and tireless champions for our community’s children will be forever memorialized: We commend and thank the Pinellas County Commissioners for their vote on January 20 to rename the Bayside Bridge to the Dillinger McCabe Bayside Bridge!

The idea originated with Commissioner Chris Latvala, also a JWB Board Member, who sought Kay Dillinger’s permission to pursue the name change after her husband died in 2024. “She was immediately on board,” reported the Tampa Bay Times, in a meaningful piece announcing the change. 

JWB Interim CEO Mike Mikurak penned a letter of support stating that JWB was “honored to offer our full and enthusiastic support for the proposed renaming….”    

“As JWB approaches our 80th anniversary,” he wrote, “we can think of no more fitting tribute than renaming the Bayside Bridge in honor of two men who gave so much of themselves to ensure every child has the opportunity to fulfill their potential and achieve meaningful and purposeful lives.”

The letter continued: “These two men were fierce champions for children and deeply respected, longstanding members of the JWB Board, where they served together for over two decades. 

Bernie McCabe, a pillar of the JWB Board, served as the longtime Finance Committee Chair. A legendary figure in the legal community, Bernie’s guiding principle in every decision was simple yet powerful: “Is it good for the kids?” That question consistently informed his thoughtful, principled leadership.

Bob Dillinger was equally tireless in his advocacy, especially for underserved families. His passion for fighting childhood hunger and addressing basic needs defined his public service and helped countless children avoid deeper-end services through early intervention and support.

Together, Bob and Bernie were formidable forces on the Board. While they didn’t always see eye to eye, they found common ground when it came to putting children first. Their shared vision and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on our organization and our community.”

To honor their long-standing service, in 2021, JWB created the Dillinger-McCabe Putting Children First Leadership Award to be presented annually to a well-established leader and champion for Pinellas County children and families. 

As we well know and the Times reported, “Kay Dillinger maintains a close friendship with McCabe’s wife, Denise, who stood alongside her Tuesday morning for the announcement of the bridge’s renaming. The most touching moment was when the commissioners handed them a miniature version of the road sign that will appear on the bridge, said Denise McCabe.” 

And their husbands’ legacies live on through their continued involvement with our Legacy Board and the award named in their husbands’ honor. We will be reminded of them again as we review the candidates for this recognition that arrive when JWB calls for nominations later this summer–and any time we drive across the Dillinger McCabe Bayside Bridge.

As Mr. Mikurak stated in JWB’s letter of support: “Their legacy is not only worthy of remembrance – it is worthy of a lasting, visible symbol that speaks to generations to come about the power of putting children first!”

The Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB) announces a groundbreaking initiative to safeguard children online and equip families with vital support. JWB is making it possible for all Pinellas County parents, grandparents, and concerned citizens to receive a free annual subscription to Parent ProTech, a powerful education platform featuring the latest tools to navigate their child’s technology safely.

Parent ProTech’s vast online library includes expert-backed guides, videos, conversation starters, and safety recommendations on topics like parental controls, social media, AI, and more. Plus, their experts keep pace with developing digital trends, alerting families to new emerging dangers on their child’s devices – all in ways that are easy-to-understand, digest, and use.

“There’s a growing gap between what parents know about technology and how their children actually use it,” stated Michael Mikurak, JWB Interim CEO. “When JWB was created 80 years ago, ‘stranger danger’ meant someone in a van offering candy to lure children away. Today, cyberbullies, human traffickers, and online predators can enter homes 24/7 through a child’s phone, computer, or gaming system, putting them in imminent danger.”

“It’s like leaving your child’s bedroom window open or your doors unlocked,” added Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, a staunch proponent and committed partner with JWB’s new initiative.

Studies tell us that kids average 8 to 11 hours on their devices each day, and these numbers spike when children aren’t in school. Online crimes against children are up as well.

Parent ProTech is part of JWB’s Children’s Mental Health Initiative aimed at protecting children, reducing stigmas, and instilling a sense of well-being and belonging. Research consistently shows a strong link between cyberbullying, online harassment, and youth suicide. The U.S. has seen a significant increase in youth suicide, with rates among children aged 10 to 14 increasing by 95% between 2000 and 2018—making suicide the second leading cause of death for youth. This spike has occurred concurrently with increased online and social media use and has been declared a “Youth Mental Health Crisis” by the U.S. Surgeon General.

“JWB has invested Pinellas County tax dollars to protect kids online and help pave a safer path for the next generation,” continued Mikurak. “Plus, we’ve amassed a powerful alliance of legislators, law enforcement, and community leaders: a united front to decisively combat cyberbullies, human traffickers, and online predators.”

JWB is protecting children and supporting families by offering free annual subscriptions to Parent ProTech, and urges all Pinellas County parents, grandparents, and concerned citizens to sign up and share this link: app.parentprotech.com/jwb

“If we can prevent even one child from being cyberbullied, trapped by screen addiction, or targeted by online predators, we’ve succeeded!”

JWB is extremely grateful for the widespread support of our U.S. Legislators as we join forces with partners across Pinellas County to give parents access to Parent ProTech tools and resources to help keep their kids safe online. We’re very proud to share the legislators’ own words here.

Senator Ashley Moody shared in a letter, “We must continue to promote safety, strengthen families, and ensure that every child…has the chance to grow up free from exploitation and fear.” Read the Senator’s letter here.

Senator Rick Scott said he is “[grateful] to the Juvenile Welfare Board for your dedication to protecting children from online safety threats and…providing free resources and tools to help keep kids safe online.” Read the Senator’s letter here.

Representative Gus Bilirakis shared a video outlining his commitment to federal legislation aimed at holding platforms accountable and building safer digital spaces for youth. Watch the Representative’s video here.

Representative Kathy Castor wrote: “I applaud…the Juvenile Welfare Board’s commitment to protecting children online…your efforts will safeguard children, support families, and strengthen our community.” Read the Representative’s letter here.

Representative Anna Paulina Luna‘s video message applauds JWB’s leadership and our partnership with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement in stopping online predators. Watch the Representative’s video here.

Pinellas County families can access Parent ProTech tools and resources thanks to free subscriptions courtesy of JWB at app.parentprotech.com/jwb.

On Monday, December 8, 2025, the Juvenile Welfare Board (JWB) announced a groundbreaking initiative to safeguard Pinellas County children online and equip families with vital support as students approach the holiday break, a time marked by increased device usage.

 JWB is offering all Pinellas County parents, grandparents, and concerned citizens a free annual subscription to Parent Protech where they will find the latest expert tools to navigate their child’s technology safely.

Watch the press conference in its entirety here:

JWB is committed to protecting children and aiding law enforcement in their valiant efforts to stop cyberbullying, human trafficking, and online predators. To that end, we’ve contracted with Parent ProTech to offer all Pinellas County parents, grandparents, and caregivers a FREE subscription to the latest information to help keep kids safe online.

Parent ProTech experts advise parents of dangers lurking on their children’s devices and equip them with tools to navigate technology safely. Their vast online library includes videos and guides on topics like parental controls, social media, AI, and more.

Join our efforts to safeguard Pinellas County children, support families, and strengthen our community. Register today for a free virtual demonstration webinar on Monday, December 15 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. Scan the QR code below or click on this link to register: https://bit.ly/ParentProTechWebinar

On Monday, December 8, 2025, the Juvenile Welfare Board (JWB) announced a groundbreaking initiative to safeguard Pinellas County children online and equip families with vital support as students approach the holiday break, a time marked by increased device usage.

JWB Interim CEO Michael Mikruak announced that starting today, JWB is offering all Pinellas County parents, grandparents, and concerned citizens a free annual subscription to Parent Protech where they will find the latest expert tools to navigate their child’s technology safely.

Parent ProTech’s vast online library includes videos and guides on topics like parental controls, social media, AI, and more. Plus, their experts keep pace with developing digital trends, alerting families to new, emerging dangers on their child’s devices.

“When JWB was created 80 years ago, ‘stranger danger’ meant someone in a van offering candy to lure children away,” continued Mikurak. “Today, cyberbullies, human traffickers, and online predators can enter homes 24/7 through a child’s phone, computer, or gaming system, putting them in imminent danger.”

“It’s like leaving your child’s bedroom window open or your doors unlocked,” added Sheriff Gualtieri.

Studies tell us that kids average 8 to 11 hours on their devices each day – and these numbers spike when children aren’t in school. Online crimes against children are up as well.

Parent ProTech is part of JWB’s Children’s Mental Health Initiative aimed at protecting children, reducing stigmas, and instilling a sense of well-being and belonging. Research consistently shows a strong link between cyberbullying, online harassment, and youth suicide. The U.S. has seen a significant increase in youth suicide, with rates among children aged 10 to 14 increasing by 95% between 2000 and 2018, and is the second leading cause of death for our children and youth. This rise has occurred concurrently with increased online and social media use and has been termed a “Youth Mental Health Crisis” by the U.S. Surgeon General.

JWB has amassed a powerful alliance of legislators, law enforcement, and community leaders: a united front to decisively combat cyberbullies, human traffickers, and online predators. We urge every Pinellas County parent, grandparent, and concerned adult to take five minutes to create a free online account with Parent ProTech and begin accessing resources. Sheriff Gualtieri stated, “Together, let’s put online predators on notice!”

JWB is protecting children and investing in their futures by offering free annual subscriptions to Parent ProTech for all Pinellas County families and concerned citizens. Sign-up today at app.parentprotech.com/jwb.

The Children’s Movement of Florida is proud to welcome Michael Mikurak to Bosses for Babies!

Under his leadership as CEO of the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County, Michael champions early investment in children and families—directing over $100M annually to programs that strengthen infant health, early learning, parent education, and family support.

He ensures JWB is a family-friendly workplace too, with no-cost health benefits, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and breastfeeding accommodations. Michael’s leadership reflects his belief that when we invest early in children, families and communities thrive.

Learn more about Michael and Bosses for Babies at https://www.childrensmovementflorida.org/business-engagement/bosses-for-babies/michael-mikurak

The Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas (JWB) and its Pinellas Fatherhood Collaborative and Turbo Babies Campaign hosted a free car-themed family event geared towards dads and their babies on November 8.

Nearly 600 families, also known as their Turbo Babies’ Pit Crews, enjoyed free admission, food, prizes, entertainment, and more at the Collection at Palmetto in Clearwater from 10 AM to 2 PM.

Family-friendly activities were offered both indoors and outdoors, including free admission to the car museum, train rides, and the first-ever Babytona 500 Races, where babies crawled to the finish line.

The Clearwater Fire Department also hosted a special fire truck demonstration at 12 PM. 

“The magic of Turbo Babies is in the simplicity of its messaging that everyday activities help build babies’ brains,” said JWB Interim Chief Executive Officer Michael G. Mikurak. “One of our Turbo Tips is ‘Talk & Repeat,’ illustrating the importance of talking to your baby often, using a variety of words, then repeating. Pathways are paved in your baby’s brain through repetition. Be baby’s storyteller by describing what you see or do during everyday activities—like our car show and family day—to reinforce neural pathways and promote baby’s healthy development.”

This family fun day provided ample opportunities to point out new and exciting things to babies and children, including food trucks, train rides, touch-a-truck stations, and a car museum. Dads and kids of all ages also enjoyed a family dance party with local DJ Corey Thornton.

Free haircuts for dads were provided by the Central Station Barbershop & Grooming, BayCare offered health screenings for all adults, and developmental screenings for babies were provided by Help Me Grow.

Check out more adorable photos from the event on Facebook.

To learn more about the Turbo Babies campaign, visit TurboBabies.com.