Raising awareness and advocating for people with disabilities and their familiesACCESS Awards
The ACCESS Awards recognize those in the community of the City of Wilmington who are opening doors and creating opportunities for people living with disabilities and their families. It serves as a tool to encourage investments in accessibility.
Award categories include:
- Accessibility to Arts
- Accessibility to Resources
- Employment/Business Ownership by and for the Disabled
- Community Involvement
2012 Access Awards Recipents
Accessibility to the Arts - Delaware Children’s Museum
Located on Wilmington's Riverfront, the DCM and Executive Director/CEO Julie W. Van Brarcom were honored for making building and programs accessible to those with disabilities.
Resources for the Disabled - United Cerebral Palsy of Delaware, Inc.
The UCP of Delaware and Executive Director William J. McCool, III were honored for building Garrett House, an affordable and accessible seven apartment complex in Wilmington's Quaker Hill neighborhood built for those with physical disabilities.
Employment/Business Ownership – David Schlecker
Mr. Schlecker was posthumously honored for his efforts with the “Connect to Work Program” of Connections Community Support Programs, Inc. to remove barriers to employment for adults by teaching them skills and how to overcome logistical and transportation impediments.
Community Outreach – Police Athletic League (PAL) of Wilmington
PAL and Executive Director Wilbert “Bunny” Miller were honored for community outreach to all youth of different backgrounds and abilities by providing a safe place that is both building- and program-accessible.
Inaugural William Pelham Award for Excellence – Council Member Charles M. “Bud” Freel
Council Member Freel was honored for his tireless dedication to the Access Wilmington Committee and his years of effort to improve the quality of life for all Wilmingtonians.
