Arc of Illinois 70th Annual Convention

Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination for the 70th Annual Convention Awards. We feel all staff are winners and would like to acknowledge all Direct Support Workers and QIDPs during this very difficult time of uncertainty with the COVID-19 pandemic.

DSPs Nominated:

Mario Ionta, PremierCare Consulting
Dominique Hurley, New Star
Milka Hernandez, Community Support Services
Arnold Davis, Ray Graham Association
Shauna Pates, Envision Unlimited
Jacquelyn Anderson, Trinity Services

QIDPs Nominated:

Carol Holt, Human Service Center
Martha Bohorquez, El Valor
Hannah Lowe, Envision Unlimited
Nicole Sanders, Trinity Services, Inc
Nadia Sorensen, Trinity Services, Inc

Distinguished Service Award:

To acknowledge an organization that offers an exemplary, unique and innovative program resulting in people with developmental disabilities achieving full participation in the life of the community. This award is presented to the provider whose services are a model of excellence to others promoting inclusive environments.

WINNER: Orion Couling, EDGE of Orion Theatre Company – No Easy Target

Will present video Thursday, June 11th at 4:00 p.m.

Mabley Volunteers of the Year Award:

To honor exceptional individuals who actively devote time and energy to enhance life experiences for people with developmental disabilities.

WINNERS: Justin Harris & Micki Coppel

Will present videos Thursday, June 11th at 1:30 p.m.

Self-Advocacy Award:

To honor outstanding self-advocacy work in Illinois done by a person with an Intellectual or Developmental Disability.

WINNER: Daniel Smrowkowski

Will present video Thursday, June 11th at 12:15 p.m.

Leadership Awards:

To recognize a paid staff or a volunteer whose contributions have significantly impacted the lives of children and/or adults with developmental disabilities. Recipient will be selected based upon their leadership efforts that have inspired others and influenced positive change.

WINNERS: Karla Jensen (Specialized Training for Adult RehabiliTation) and James Sanchez (Envision Unlimited)

Will present videos Thursday, June 11th at 2:30 p.m.

Direct Support Professional Awards:

To acknowledge individuals for their outstanding, dedicated direct care service and support to persons with developmental disabilities.

WINNERS: Kelly Sheridan (Oak-Leyden), Debra Richard (Centerstone of Illinois) and Maria Campaigniac (El Valor)

Will present videos Friday, June 12th at 12:15 p.m.

QIDP/Case Manager Awards:

To acknowledge an individual for their outstanding, dedicated service as a QIDP/Case Manager for persons with developmental disabilities.

WINNERS: Connie Foster (Kreider Services, Inc) and Camelia Gamble (New Star)

Will present videos Friday, June 12th at 11:15 a.m.

Outstanding Family Member Advocate Award:

To recognize a family member who actively devotes time and energy to enhance the life experience for their family member with developmental disabilities.

WINNER: Ronald Stricklin (Trinity Services, Inc.)

Will present video Thursday, June 11th at 12:15 p.m.