Give back to those that give

While rarely individuals do good work for the sake of recognition, many are profoundly grateful that their relentless efforts are appreciated. When we see award forms, it’s easy to pass and move onto something else that seem more relevent in our lives. But if you’ve had contact with someone over the last year that you think has really made a difference or change – please give back. The form takes about 15 minutes of your time, but it can offer a lifetime of meaning to someone that really deserves it.

Who do you see, meet or work with this year?

The full form is linked here. See below for the four opportunities:

GENE FIORENTINO SELF-ADVOCATE AWARD
Self Advocacy refers to an individual’s ability to effectively communicate, convey, negotiate or assert his or her own interests, desires, needs, and rights. The Gene Fiorentino Self-Advocate Award was established in memory of one of RCIL’s most committed board member’s, Gene Fiorentino. He was a true advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities and truly believed in the vision and mission of RCIL.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT AWARD
RCIL is looking for individual(s), community organizations, agencies or businesses that have made an outstanding contribution and increased the availability of support services to persons with disabilities, has served in a volunteer capacity, and/or improved the quality of life for persons with disabilities. Examples of this support may be in the form of (but not limited to): commitment of dollars, in-kind donations and technical support, or campaigns to promote awareness of or action around the needs of persons with disabilities.
PUBLIC POLICY AWARD
RCIL is looking for an individual or community organization that has reflected a commitment to excellence and a resolve in supporting changes in Legislation and Public Policy that has promoted full integration of Civil Rights for people with disabilities. Past recipients of this award include former Senator Raymond Meier and Alice Savino, Executive Director of the Workforce Investment Board along with Assemblywoman, RoAnn Destito. In these cases, the recipients advocated for system-wide changes in public policy that truly support the Independent Living Philosophy.
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD
This individual or team will have provided outstanding, high-quality service furthering RCIL’s mission directly or indirectly, allowing equal opportunity for community participation for individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, the nominees must act in a manner in keeping with the Independent Living Philosophy and have made a significant impact on RCIL or the community. The purpose of the “Employee of the Year Award” is to:

• Support the Agency’s goal of developing and recognizing talent
• Reward Agency’s valued talent by celebrating their accomplishments at the Annual Dinner held in October
• Complement and reinforce the Agency’s mission, vision and values

- Ellen

Rep. Hanna's visit to RCIL

Rep. Richard Hanna from the 24th district joined us at our staff meeting last week. Over the hour he was with us, he talked about the economy, healthcare and the political environment in Washington. At issue this week, and in the coming weeks, is the appropriate balance between taxation and “entitlements” such as Medicaid, Medicare, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Social Security. Rep. Hanna suggested during the dialog that current levels of spending were unsustainable and that he anticipated cuts happening.

If you want to connect with Rep. Hanna, his record or his staff, see below for some options:

• You can call his office to set an appointment to discuss individual issues. For advice on approaching your legislator about policy issues and concerns, call us at RCIL 315-797-4642 and ask to speak with Donna Gillette.
• For how Rep. Hanna voted on any issue, see his Congressional website http://hanna.house.gov/
• Rep. Hanna regularly runs live Town Hall meetings by phone. If you receive one of these calls, consider staying on the line. You can listen and ask questions.

As the deadline for raising the debt ceiling looms, important decisions about the federal budget are being negotiated on a daily basis. This is a great week for contacting Rep. Hanna about how public spending affects you.

- Ellen