The Arc of Illinois has awarded its Legislator of the Year Award to Representative
Robyn Gabel. Representative Gabel has shown outstanding leadership on behalf
of infants, children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Representative Robyn Gabel is a strong advocate in the General Assembly for
disability services, human services and health care access. She chairs the House
Human Services Committee and is the Vice-Chair of the House Appropriations-
Human Services Committee. She has sponsored many bills that benefit persons with
disabilities, including two important Special Education bills, HB 1288 and HB 1446,
both signed into law. She is also the sponsor of HB 3698, which is the House bill on
wage increases for direct care professionals in community residential settings for
persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Representative Gabel
shares The Arc’s position that everyone can live a full life in the community.
“Representative Gabel is always there for us when we need assistance in the
legislative process and has been extremely articulate in the debates in committee and
in the House of Representatives,” stated Brian Rubin, President of The Arc of Illinois.
“She is a true champion for people with disabilities and has led the charge to ensure
that people with disabilities have the opportunity to live life to their full potential.”
“On a local level, Representative Gabel has been our legislative hero,” said Ann
Sickon, Executive Director of the Center for Independent Futures in Evanston. “She
is our go to person in the Capitol.”
“I am honored that The Arc has selected me for their Legislator of the Year Award.
The Arc is a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities and I appreciate working
with them,” Representative Robyn Gabel commented.
The award will be presented to Representative Gabel at a reception on June 11th,
4:00 -6:00 pm at the Center for Independent Futures in Evanston.
The Arc of Illinois represents individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities and supports the full inclusion of individuals in the community.
Tony Paulauski Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org
