Last Week's Meeting
Rotarians learned from Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) about a wide array of programs and services designed to emphasize the abilities of everyone.
According to George Gabriel, SSA Supervisor, MCBDD currently serves over 1,500 families from birth to adult. Early intervention programs support families of infants and toddlers ages 0 – 3, while the Leonard Kirtz School provides comprehensive services to those ages 6 -22. Once the client is older, there are many adult programs offered. If you have questions about eligibility in any of the programs, give George a call at 330-797-2869.
William Clark is a Community Outreach Advocate who helps educate clients, as well as find employment for them and assists them in navigating the complex system of social services. Many clients of MCBDD are employed in the community, in businesses such as Giant Eagle, Subway, and others.
William builds awareness of MCBDD by giving presentations at schools in grades 4 -12, and teaches the students what it’s like to have a disability. Among the many activities he uses is Charades, to show the students what it might be like to be non-verbal.
William is proud to be able to use his experience for the betterment of the community and be a voice to those who don’t have one. William is also a published author, writing a book about life as a disabled man. He will be returning to school to earn his Master’s in counseling.
In addition to the weekly meeting, Rotarians gathered Thursday at the Tyler Center to celebrate Josh Prest’s year as RCY president. His “roast” took place in a weekly meeting format, with Adam Lee assuming Josh’s role, Stacia Erdos Littleton serving as the harried Zoom meeting coordinator, and a number of club members offering Happy (and Not So Happy) Bucks about Josh. A not-ready-for-Vegas magical act, featuring Dave Stillwagon and Samatha Turner, amped up the humor. Live music, tasty food and camaraderie made for a great evening.
Each year at the annual President’s Party, several awards are given for Service Above Self. We are proud to present the 2022 recipients:
The Charles F. Owsley President’s Award - Barbara Brothers
The Robert A. Manchester II Club Leadership Award - Operation Pollination; chair, Elayne Bozick
The Edward J. Hulme New Member Award - Jessica Romeo
The Rotary Club of Youngstown Lifetime Achievement Award -Tess Trucksis
