Autism Delaware receives President’s Volunteer Service Award
Autism Delaware has announced it received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for 2013. Presented by the Corporation for National and Community Service, the award recognizes the autism agency’s adult services program for its “commitment to strengthening our nation and for making a difference through volunteer service.” A commemorative pin and certificate accompanied a letter of congratulations from President Barack Obama, who thanked Autism Delaware “for helping to address the most pressing needs in your community and our country.”
The award resulted from an article in the summer 2014 issue of Hagley Magazine. Titled “Autism Delaware Volunteers,” the article highlights the volunteer effort at the Hagley Museum and Library on the part of participants in Autism Delaware’s adult services program. Known as Productive Opportunities for Work and Recreation, the program offers community-based vocational services; competitive, supported, and self-employment; and social and wellness activities as well as volunteer opportunities in the community.
“Our partnership with Hagley,” says Program Director Katina Demetriou, in the article, “has allowed POW&R participants the opportunity to develop critical work skills as well as social skills that are necessary for employment.”
“We look forward to seeing our friends each Friday,” said Hagley Development Coordinator Cindy Gamble. “We count on them, and they always fulfill their commitment to Hagley.”
For more information about POW&R and other resources at Autism Delaware, visit autismdelaware.org.
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder that includes impairment in social interaction and social communication. Autism Delaware is a nonprofit organization made up of individuals with ASD, their family members, the professionals who serve them, and friends of people with ASD. The agency’s mission is to help people and families affected by ASD. With offices in Newark, Dover, and Lewes, Autism Delaware serves the entire state. For more information on how to help, visit autismdelaware.org.
