MARYLAND Governor Martin O’Malley declared November 8 as the Center for Social Change Day recognizing the Center for Social Change (CSC), a non-profit organization,founded by Indian Americansociologist Dr Joseph Mathew.
During the open house celebrations held on November 8 at the CSC corporate headquarters, Catherine A. Raggio, Secretary of Disabilities on Maryland Commission of Disabilities, read the awarding proclamation signed by Governor O’Malley, “I want to congratulate Dr Joseph Mathew, the board of directors, the individuals, their families and the staff of CSC for 15 years of service to people with developmental disabilities. I want to thank you for the energyand enthusiasm
.”Addressing a packed auditorium,Dr Mathew said, “The ideology
which inspired me was the ideology of change. Fifteen years ago,we embraced this concept and we continue our commitment to changing people’s lives. Today, I am proud to say that 15 years ago we created a defining moment in the US disability movement.”
Secretary Raggio was all praise for the recent sports day organized
by CSC. “Thank you for bringing joy to people’s lives with the sports day,” she said.
Phyllis Madachy, administrator, Department of Citizen Services, Office of Aging said, “the County Executive and the Howard County government is all about change and improvement, and what has been demonstrated here over the past 15 years, is the power of that vision. Clearly it has been a vision that touched families and individuals.”
The event featured dignitaries including Bridgette Koleman, Miss World Congeniality 2008, a social activist and an ardent supporter of CSC. A major highlight of the event
was the inauguration of a new greenhouse which is set to become an integral part of CSC’s Supported Employment Program. It was inaugurated by Michael Taylor, an individual who has been successfully rehabilitated by CSC.
Michael Taylor also presented the best sportsperson of the year award to Charles Hoffman, who part of CSC’s residential program. Performances by the Girl Scout Chorus of Central Maryland and the American Sign Language Club, were also featured.
Center for Social Change is a nonprofit organization providing community residential support services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, supporting employment services to adults with intellectual disabilities, residential and therapeutic integration services to children with autism, and day care services to medically handicapped older adults and people with developmental disabilities for choice, rights, growth and independence.
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