On the Monday edition of the RNJ Morning Program, Carmela Slivinski, the Executive Director of the Dawn Center for Independent Living, joining Morning Mike to talk about the Thomas M. Kennedy Excellence In Accessibility Award. Thomas M. Kennedy, who passed away in 2008, was a volunteer advocate for people with disabilities. To honor his tireless efforts and dedication to equality and access for all, the Warren County Board of Chosen Freeholders established the Thomas M. Kennedy Excellence in Accessibility Award to recognize “individuals, businesses, and organizations that are user-friendly and accessible to all and/or have initiated notable efforts which have facilitated accessibility.” Warren County’s businesses and other places of public accommodation, organizations, and Warren County residents are eligible for consideration for this award. Small and privately-owned businesses will be given priority. Factors to be considered include access to the building, access to goods or services, access to restrooms, and removal of attitudinal barriers.
Carmela noted that anyone can nominate Warren County businesses and other places of public accommodation, organizations, and Warren County residents for the award. To make a nomination, you will need to complete a nomination form and get it to the Warren County Disability Advisory Council (DisAC).
If you would like to know more about the Thomas M. Kennedy Excellence In Accessibility Award and how to make a nomination, visit the website for the Dawn Center for Independent Living, dawncil.org. Scroll down under “Get Involved” and click on “Excellence In Accessibility.” You can also call (toll free) 888-383-3296.