Unicorn Children's Foundation Announces Finalists 2018 SNAC Community Inclusion Awards

[Boca Raton, FL – September 27, 2018] – The Unicorn Children’s Foundation is delighted to announce the finalists for the Special Needs Advisory Coalition (SNAC) of Palm Beach County 2018 Community Inclusion Awards. These unsung heroes, who were nominated by the community and evaluated by a group of independent judges, are recognized for their efforts at building a better and more inclusive community for individuals with special needs and their families in Palm Beach County. The winner in each category will be announced at a luncheon sponsored by Unicorn Children’s Foundation on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at Boca West Country Club. Congratulations to all of the finalists who embody excellence, integrity and passion in providing support and services to the 12% of residents who have one or more special needs/disability.

​ Center for Strategic Philanthropy & Civic Engagement Volunteer of the Year

Edward Albarran

David Lagnado

Mina Mandel

 Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County Innovation & Collaboration of the Year

The ARC of the Glades

Gulfstream Goodwill Industries

Palm Tran

Mister NonProfit Consultancy Champion of Inclusion Award

Mary Louise Duffy, FAU Academy for Community Inclusion

Kevin McCormick, School District of Palm Beach County

Dr. Jack Scott, FAU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities

Publix Self-Advocate of the Year

Merrick Egber

Haley Moss

Dominique Rivera

Quantum Foundation Healthcare Provider of the Year

Dr. Carlos Gadia, NeuroNetwork Partners, LLC

Dr. Judith Aronson-Ramos, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics of South Florida

Direct Service Professional of the Year

Despina Hall, School District of Palm Beach County

Kerri Morse, Els for Autism Foundation

Jay Van Vechten, American Disabilities Foundation

Respite Care Companion of the Year

Torika Davis, The ARC of Palm Beach County

Employer of the Year

Coalition for Independent Living Options

Home Depot/Ken’s Krew

Otis Elevator

Employee of the Year

Jackie Applebaum, The ARC of Palm Beach County

Samuel Klinger, Peter Piper Pizza

Stephanie Soplop, City of Boynton Beach

Teacher/Educator of the Year

Evelyn Falconer, Unicorn Village Academy

Amy Fleming, Palm Beach Central High School

Nicole Koppel, Palm Beach School for Autism

Post Secondary Program of the Year

FAU Academy for Community Inclusion

SOAR – Summer Opportunity for Adult Readiness

South Tech Academy

All nominees are being considered for the TD Bank Community Choice Award which will be determined through online voting through October 5, 2018 at www.snacawards.org.  Tickets are $75 per person and exhibitor tables are available which include a ticket to the awards luncheon.  More information is available by calling (561) 620-9377 or visiting our website www.snacawards.org.

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Unicorn Children's Foundation is a 23 year old non-profit organization that is dedicated to building communities of acceptance, support, and opportunity for kids and young adults who are challenged by special needs and neurodiversity by supporting or developing its cradle to career pathways.  Our initiatives connect families to community resources, advocate for inclusive opportunities, respect differences, empower individuals, and support success.  With 1 in 6 children being diagnosed with a developmental or learning disorder, we believe it is our responsibility to create a world where all children’s potential can flourish.  To learn more about the Unicorn Children's Foundation visit http://www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org. Also available on Facebook and Twitter.