Started in 1998 by Mary Clurman – Nanny News, Judi Merlin – A Friend of the Family, and a group of dedicated industry professionals, National Nanny Recognition Week was created to draw attention to the positive aspects of nannies instead of the negative issues the press seems to thrive on.
Past events scheduled across the country included a 1000 nanny march on the capitol steps of Washington, DC, a rally in Atlanta’s Centennial Park, various parties and picnic hosted by agencies and nanny support groups nationwide. NNRW has become an annual event lauded by nannies, industry professionals, media, nanny support groups, industry leaders, professional organizations and the parents whom employ the nannies.
In 1999, The National Association of Nannies, which was the first national organization run by nannies for nannies, was given permission to adopt NNRW as its own and developed it into a weeklong celebration ending with its annual conference. NAN folded in 2005 but the NNRW legacy was passed on to APN who took over the reins in 2007. When they folded, the event was passed on to two career nannies, Angela Jackson (Richmond, VA) and Kellie Geres (Washington, DC) who now keep the event in the minds of today’s nannies and the industry by oversee the blog (www.nnrw.org) and the NNRW Facebook page.
What began as an effort of few now spans hundreds of professionals the last full week of September each year. NNRW continues to focus on the positive, quality aspects that nannies bring to their charges and jobs every day; and for parents and agencies to say “Thank You” to their wonderful caregivers.
years ago. She was a founding member of APNA, the first co-president, and a long-time board member. She was an advocate of ethics and was a role model to all around her. Judi was a mentor, a visionary, and educator. She was helpful to anyone who needed assistance. Above all, she was a friend, mother and grandmother. Her loss leaves a void for many who knew her and were touched in some way by her generous spirit, gentle soul and faithful friendship. Judi was a truly great woman who will be sorely missed.”