A delicious repast was served at The Grand on July 23, in recognition of the golden anniversary of the Disabled Resources Center. It also celebrated the 36th anniversary of thepassing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
There were almost 200 people at the annual awards dinner, which raised about $30,000. They were there to honor DRC’s 50 years of service to those with disabilities bypromoting independent living in the community. The event also celebrated Disability Pride and recognized champions of disability in the community.
Many supporters were recognized, including Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga, who received the Civic Leadership Award; Chase Arcangel, who received the Jerry Stein IndependentLiving Award; and Maximus Charney, who received the Community Service Award.
The Jose Jara — Outstanding Military Veteran Scholarship went to Casper Joy and Christopher Bynum from Cal State Long Beach, and Joey Arcangel and Chris Tann fromLong Beach City College.
Jennifer Kumiyama was recognized as the new executive director and long-standing staff members were also congratulated. Standouts were Mario Rodriguez (deputy director andhousing resources program coordinator, who has served for 23 years; and Khanny Ou, travel training program coordinator, for 27 years.
“The independent living philosophy recognizes that people with disabilities are the experts in our own lives,” Kumiyama said. “It is rooted in the belief that every person deserves the freedom, opportunity and support to make their own choices, participate fully in their community and live with dignity. Uplifting this philosophy means moving beyond charity and toward equity, self-determination and the fundamental right of every person to lead the life they choose.
“Becoming executive director of the Disabled Resources Center is an honor and responsibility that I do not take lightly,” she added. “As a person with a disability, I’m proud to helpcarry forward the philosophy of the independent living movement and ensure people with disabilities have the opportunity to lead, thrive and make their own choices in theircommunity.”
Seen at the Scene: Councilmembers Roberto Uranga, Mary Zendejas, Megan Kerr and Joni Ricks-Oddie; representatives from the offices of Reps. Robert Garcia and Nanette Barragan, state Sen. Lena Gonzalez, county Supervisor Janice Hahn, Mayor Rex Richardson, Tunua Thrash-Ntuk; and “Castable Podcast” co-host Benai Boyd.
News of Social events with charitable purposes may be sent to Shirley Wild at spwild@verizon.net. Please include a contact phone number. Send high-resolution jpeg photos, by attachment, to spwild@verizon.net and include group name and identification of individuals from left. Call Shirley at 562-594-9468 for more information.