Mohave Today

The Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities in Chandler, Arizona, is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Disability Awareness Awards. These awards aim to recognize individuals in the community who have made significant contributions to the disabled community and inspire others to do the same. Nominations can be submitted online and are open to all members of the Chandler community.

There are five categories for the awards: Student of the Year, Educator of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Employee of the Year, and Employer of the Year. Each category seeks to honor individuals who have excelled in their respective fields and have overcome barriers to make a difference.

According to the official guidelines, the Student of the Year Award will be given to a student who has excelled beyond their apparent limitations. The Educator of the Year Award will be given to an individual who has worked in the field of training or educating people with disabilities. The Volunteer of the Year Award will be given to an individual who has consistently and outstandingly served people with disabilities. The Employee of the Year Award will be given to an employee who has overcome barriers and excelled in their work. Lastly, the Employer of the Year Award will be given to an employer who is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and empowering employees with disabilities.

Nominators are encouraged to provide specific details and accomplishments of the nominee that qualify them for the award. The deadline for nominations is Sunday, Feb. 4. The award recipients will be honored during the Chandler City Council Meeting on Thursday, Feb. 22. Mayor Kevin Hartke and the City Council will present the awards to the deserving recipients.

The Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities plays a crucial role in advising the Council and staff on policies and regulations related to advocacy issues experienced by the disabled community. They advocate for individuals with physical and mental disabilities, birth defects, injuries, and age-related disabilities. These awards serve as a precursor to Disability Awareness Month, which is recognized annually in March by the City of Chandler.

For more information about the awards or the nomination process, interested individuals can email Therapeutic Recreation or call 480-782-2908.

"From student leaders and change-making educators, innovative employers, and hard-working employees to outstanding volunteers, Chandler’s Disability Awareness Awards allows the community to share and recognize deserving individuals and inspire others."

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.chandleraz.gov/news-center/nominations-chandlers-2024-disability-awareness-awards-are-now-open