Barb Tobias and Linda Hall, directors and co-founders of Connect to Community, have received the Dan Van Hecke award for Outstanding Leadership and Service to the Disability Community. Nominated by Clearbrook Outreach Specialist Michelle Schwartz, Barb and Linda were presented the award at last month’s Disability Pride Parade in downtown Chicago.
In her nomination, Schwartz said: “At a time when state funding and diminishing resource allocation for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is occurring in Illinois, both Linda and Barb rose to the call to organize and meet the demanding, increasing needs of young men and women who deserve equal access and opportunity to be productive members of their communities. I could not be more inspired or empowered to know these women. They are leaders in the community for their initiative, positive energy, and enthusiastic advocacy on behalf of this under-supported population in Illinois.”
The Dan Van Hecke Award honors the work of a man who dedicated his life to empowering the disability community. Dan, a major organizer of the Disability Pride Parade, was also an accessible taxi driver and spearheaded the Taxi Access Program in Chicago. His inexhaustible efforts to create more avenues of independence for and investment in people with disabilities are reflected in this award.
Connect to Community was honored and validated to have its work recognized in such a wonderful way. Congratulations Linda and Barb!
Comments are closed.