COURT HOUSE – The winners of this award, renamed the 2013 Frank Unkle Outstanding Service Recognition Award, will be honored at the 5th Annual Cape May County Community Disabilities Awareness Day event on Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at a new location, the Avalon Elementary School in Avalon
In 2013, the disabilities community was saddened at the untimely passing of Frank Unkle, Executive Director of The Arc of Cape May County for 27 years, and a committed advocate for the most vulnerable in our county. In recognition of Frank’s tireless and outstanding service and to challenge our citizens to continue his legacy, the Cape May County Outstanding Service Recognition Award has been renamed in his honor.
The purpose of this award is to acknowledge individuals, organizations and/or businesses for their various contributions to improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities living in Cape May County. The public is encouraged to nominate those who go above and beyond, on any scale, to ensure that individuals with disabilities are included fully in the life of the community.
The countywide call for nominations for this annual award brought an enthusiastic response from the community this year. In the end, the review committee chose an individual and an organization for the 2013 Awards:
Individual Category: Joseph Giannattasio, Coordinator for the Middle Township Clean Communities Program. In his capacity as Coordinator for this Middle Township program, Joe has supervised several individuals with developmental disabilities, who have become an integral part of the Township’s family of public employees. His caring and competent supervision has been a win-win for the Clean Communities program and for the residents of Middle Township. Vital services are enthusiastically and cheerfully provided to the public, and individuals with disabilities have an opportunity for gainful employment and full participation in their community. Joe’s dedication to supporting the success of these employees has impacted their sense of self not only on the job, but also as important, contributing members of the wider community.
Organization Category: The Blind Center of the Jersey Cape.The Blind Center, founded by Millie Saraduke, provides a welcoming year-round program for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Twice a week a group of dedicated volunteers, under the direction of Millie and the new President, Phil Harris, leads the members through a variety of programs including music, drama, crafts and exercise. In addition, the group welcomes speakers from the community, works on special projects and enjoys occasional field trips. The goal of the Blind Center is to provide support and camaraderie, as well as skills and education, so that blind people can live active lives and strive for independence, self-development and a sense of self-worth. The Blind Center has for 13 years consistently met that goal and filled a vital need in the Cape May County community.
Congratulations to these very deserving award winners!
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
