Unicorn Children's Foundation Announces Finalists 2018 SNAC Community Inclusion Awards September 27, 2018
[Boca Raton, FL – September 27, 2018] – The Unicorn Children’s Foundation is delighted to announce the finalists for the Special Needs Advisory Coalition (SNAC) of Palm Beach County 2018 Community Inclusion Awards. These unsung heroes, who were nominated by the community and evaluated by a group of independent judges, are recognized for their efforts at building a better and more inclusive community for individuals with special needs and their families in Palm Beach County. The winner in each category will be announced at a luncheon sponsored by Unicorn Children’s Foundation on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at Boca West Country Club. Congratulations to all of the finalists who embody excellence, integrity and passion in providing support and services to the 12% of residents who have one or more special needs/disability.
Center for Strategic Philanthropy & Civic Engagement Volunteer of the Year Edward Albarran David Lagnado Mina Mandel
Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County Innovation & Collaboration of the Year The ARC of the Glades Gulfstream Goodwill Industries Palm Tran
Mister NonProfit Consultancy Champion of Inclusion Award Mary Louise Duffy, FAU Academy for Community Inclusion Kevin McCormick, School District of Palm Beach County Dr. Jack Scott, FAU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities
Publix Self-Advocate of the Year Merrick Egber Haley Moss Dominique Rivera
Quantum Foundation Healthcare Provider of the Year Dr. Carlos Gadia, NeuroNetwork Partners, LLC Dr. Judith Aronson-Ramos, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics of South Florida
Direct Service Professional of the Year Despina Hall, School District of Palm Beach County Kerri Morse, Els for Autism Foundation Jay Van Vechten, American Disabilities Foundation
Respite Care Companion of the Year Torika Davis, The ARC of Palm Beach County
Employer of the Year Coalition for Independent Living Options Home Depot/Ken’s Krew Otis Elevator
Employee of the Year Jackie Applebaum, The ARC of Palm Beach County Samuel Klinger, Peter Piper Pizza Stephanie Soplop, City of Boynton Beach
Teacher/Educator of the Year Evelyn Falconer, Unicorn Village Academy Amy Fleming, Palm Beach Central High School Nicole Koppel, Palm Beach School for Autism
Post Secondary Program of the Year FAU Academy for Community Inclusion SOAR – Summer Opportunity for Adult Readiness South Tech Academy
All nominees are being considered for the TD Bank Community Choice Award which will be determined through online voting through October 5, 2018 at www.snacawards.org. Tickets are $75 per person and exhibitor tables are available which include a ticket to the awards luncheon. More information is available by calling (561) 620-9377 or visiting our website www.snacawards.org.
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Unicorn Children's Foundation is a 23 year old non-profit organization that is dedicated to building communities of acceptance, support, and opportunity for kids and young adults who are challenged by special needs and neurodiversity by supporting or developing its cradle to career pathways. Our initiatives connect families to community resources, advocate for inclusive opportunities, respect differences, empower individuals, and support success. With 1 in 6 children being diagnosed with a developmental or learning disorder, we believe it is our responsibility to create a world where all children’s potential can flourish. To learn more about the Unicorn Children's Foundation visit http://www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org. Also available on Facebook and Twitter.
