The Arc of Howard County presented its Celebration of Excellence awards to organizations and individuals distinguished by their efforts to include people with developmental disabilities in their activities and otherwise support the agency's mission.
Board member Vincent Grauso was presented the President's Award for 2011 for his leadership in chairing the Monitoring and Advisory Committee and helping ensure the high quality of The Arc's services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Bob and Fran McDonough, of Columbia, who have been helping with The Arc's Chocolate Ball since 2003. In addition, they have volunteered at other fundraising events.
Jim Kave and the dedicated employees at The Kossiakoff Center of the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, was presented the Community Partnership Award for the extra support it provided to the Chocolate Ball to accommodate technical improvements.
Excellence in Schools Award was presented to Marriotts Ridge High School for its commitment to students with special needs, its willingness to modify curriculum, adapt to needs of students and create opportunities for peer interactions while encouraging independence.
The Howard County Delegation to the Maryland General Assembly and the Community Action Council were presented Excellence in Public Service Awards for its outstanding and continuing support of individuals with developmental disabilities and for its advocacy on The Arc's behalf. The Community Action Council was cited for providing weatherization modifications and other upgrades to four homes where The Arc supports residents with developmental disabilities.
Two individuals served by The Arc were presented Self Advocate of the Year Awards. Julie Gallagher was cited for her work at Costco and participation in Special Olympics, as well as her engagement. Tiffany Mason was recognized for coping with physical and emotional setbacks and succeeding in getting a job, enjoying visits with family and friends and living in an apartment with a roommate.