On June 8, 2023 the Child Protection and Advocacy section of the Georgia State Bar awarded Judge Vincent Crawford with the Willie Lovett Award at the annual State Bar Meeting. The award is given to any individual that has demonstrated a professional career and/or outstanding service as well as dedication to child protection, Children’s rights, and the advocacy of children. The award is also given to any Attorney or Judge who exemplifies excellence and professionalism in a nonlaw related community service organization. This award is also personal for Judge Crawford because Judge Lovett was a childhood friend and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Brother. They grew up together in what is now known as historic Carver Village on Googe Street in Savannah, Ga.
Judge Crawford has been on the Juvenile Court Bench for 17 years. Judge Crawford has served as an advisor to the Parent Attorney Advisory council. In 2016 he was a guest speaker at the White House on the use of technology in Juvenile Court proceedings. He has received several awards for working with delinquent youth, Children in foster care as well as youth in the community. His previous awards include from Juvenile University “Distinguish Alumni” Induction & Award from the School of Social Science, 2019 Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc Augustus Witherspoon Community Service Award, 2017 Multi-Agency Alliance for Children Shining Star Award, 2012 Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Outstanding Leadership Award, 2011 Dekalb County Juvenile Court Distinguish Service Award, 2009 Georgia Youth in Foster Care Service Award, 2009 Romae T. Powell Award from Juvenile Court Association of Georgia Probation Officers, 2010-2011 Bridges Center “Community Bridge Builder Award”, 2008 Mercer University School of Law, BLSA Service Award, 2007 Men of Redan High School Service Appreciation Award (2007). He has served as a lead mentor with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Dekalb Alphas mentoring initiative for over 15 years. The program mentors’ young men from 3rd grade through college.
