Vinfen Family Success Stories
November 7th, 2012
Vinfen honored family members at the 5th Annual Celebration of Family Partnerships at the Four Points by Sheraton in Norwood, MA on September 19th. During this event, three Vinfen family success stories were shared to the audience with personal tribute videos.
WCVB’s Susan Wornick returned as the Master of Ceremonies for the 5th annual family recognition event. Wornick, anchor of WCVB’s midday newscast and an Emmy award winning consumer reporter, spends a tremendous amount of time volunteering in the community for many non-profit organizations.
Eustacia Cutler, mother of Temple Grandin and author of A Thorn in My Pocket, served as the keynote speaker. Cutler received the Educator Award for her work on raising awareness of autism in the community.
State Representative David Paul Linsky received the Public Official Award for his consistent support of services to individuals with disabilities and his role in the State budget this year, in which he led the effort in the House of Representatives to fund raises to Direct Care staff for the first time in five years.
The Craig Smith Self-Advocate Award, which was named after a co-founder of Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong group that promotes self advocacy was presented to Judi Rodger. The Helen Fantansia-Arraj Staff Recognition Award was presented to Ashely Brown of Gateway Arts in Brookline.
Family Members receiving recognition were chosen for their extraordinary and selfless care they provide for their loved ones. Many were nominated because they are committed to advocacy, educational and leadership activities or work to improve services for other families. Some created innovative programs and inspired other family members to become more involved in Vinfen’s mission of service to individuals with disabilities.
“It’s wonderful to acknowledge family members and the efforts of the Family Advisory Council,” said Kathleen Crawford, Chairperson. “This event really strengthens the partnership between the Council and Vinfen.”
Click here to view photos of the 5th Annual Celebration of Family Partnerships.
Vinfen Success Stories