VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., Sept. 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Amerigroup Foundation presented Representative Lois W. Kolkhorst of Brenham, Texas, with its "Champion for Children" award in honor of her outstanding advocacy efforts on behalf of children's health. As part of this recognition, the Foundation awarded $1,250 to two charities of Kolkhorst's choice, the Boys & Girls Club of Austin County and the Grimes County Health Resource Center.

"Both organizations are extremely committed to helping communities across Texas and deserving of the Foundation's generous grants," said Rep. Kolkhorst. "I am truly honored to be recognized by the Foundation and thankful for its contributions."

As the Chairperson of the House Public Health committee, Rep. Kolkhorst is a leader in advocating for all Texans on issues related to the state's health care system. During the most recent legislative session, she passed health legislation to protect patient privacy and health records and to help victims of domestic violence.

"The Foundation salutes Rep. Kolkhorst's efforts in helping to improve the lives of children across our state and is proud to support two wonderful organizations that are making such a positive impact in Texas," said LeAnn Behrens, chief executive officer, Amerigroup Texas.

The award is a part of a national program by the Amerigroup Foundation to recognize outstanding public advocacy efforts by government and community leaders to improve the health and well being of children across the country.

About the Amerigroup Foundation
The Amerigroup Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Amerigroup Corporation (NYSE: AGP), a multistate managed health care company based in Virginia Beach, Va. The Foundation works to create healthy communities by fostering access to health care, encouraging safe and healthy children and families, and promoting community improvement and healthy neighborhoods.

About the Boys & Girls Club of Austin County
The Boys & Girls Club of Austin County provides children and teenagers with a safe place to learn and grow in the vulnerable hours between school and home. It is the only option in Bellville for many children seeking to have fun and participate in developmental programs in an affordable, safe and nurturing environment.

About Grimes County Health Resource Center
The Grimes County Health Resource Center has a mission to improve access to care and health status of Grimes County residents through collaboration and coordination of services.

CONTACTS:

Foundation:
Tina Gill
Amerigroup Corporation
Executive Director, Foundation
(757) 955-8875
tina.gill@amerigroup.com

News Media:
Maureen C. McDonnell
Amerigroup Corporation
Vice President, External Communications
(757) 473-2731
maureen.mcdonnell@amerigroup.com

SOURCE Amerigroup Foundation