Deaf Culture Week proclamation — Bryer McDougall Award Recipient

Seven people will be honored with awards for their contributions to Deaf culture in the state

First appeared here: https://www.wabi.tv/2020/09/15/deaf-culture-week-proclamation/

See the video here

AUGUSTA, Maine (WABI) – Governor Janet Mills has issued a proclamation designating Deaf Culture Week in Maine, beginning on Sunday. As an early kick-off, the Commission for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened will hold its 29th annual Award Ceremony and Tea this Thursday, September 17th.

Seven people will be honored with awards for their contributions to Deaf culture in the state.

Award recipients are:

Karen Hopkins — Clifton F. Rodgers Lifetime Achievement Award

Mary Jane “MJ” Grant — Ginny Hewes Advocate for the Needs of the Deaf Community Award

Emily Blachly — Special Commendation Award

Maria P. Jacques — Special Recognition Award

Bryer McDougall — Promoting ASL, Deaf Culture and Deaf People Award

Dave Bouchard — Outstanding Citizenship Award

Kamron King — Citizenship Youth Award

The event will happen virtually, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Even though its virtual, space is limited to 100 people. Email [email protected] to reserve your spot.

First appeared here: https://www.wabi.tv/2020/09/15/deaf-culture-week-proclamation/

 

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November 21, 2019
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See what New Hampshire State Director Michelle Donovan had to say in the blog post Disability Issues on the Campaign Trail in New Hampshire at Medium.com

Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of spending a few days in New Hampshire. The Granite State, though small, packs a powerful punch when it comes to its influence on modern presidential elections, as its first-in-the-nation primaries make it a popular spot for candidates to take to the stump.
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Joanne Malise, MSW, LCSW has over thirty years of experience with the Rhode Island developmental disabilities systems. She leads a dynamic team of professionals committed to providing the guidance and support needed to help people to live safely in the community, and experience lives filled with friends, family, personal growth and opportunities. She is a strong advocate for personalized supports and community inclusion

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Andrew Taranko has been with Living Innovations since 2006. After graduating from Bentley College with a degree in Business Management, Andrew has spent the past 20 years working in Southern Maine in education, mental health, and developmental services. Andrew studied health policy and management as a graduate student in the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine.

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Michelle Donovan

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Kim Einloth joined Living Innovations in 2025. She’s a graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Psychology. Her 35-year career in human services in Rhode Island included work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as other vulnerable populations. She is certified as a Person-centered Thinking Facilitator and a Community Rehabilitation Educator.

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Keri Lopes began her career in the human service field in 2002, working with and advocating for children, adults and families experiencing behavioral and mental health challenges, as well as substance use disorders and homelessness. Keri joined Living Innovations in 2024 and holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and a master's degree in healthcare management. She is dedicated to ensuring that the organization’s mission to provide support to people with diverse needs to have a good life at home and in the community is lived through the work she does each day.

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Amanda Parker has worked for Living Innovations since 2008.  Amanda, who has a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in human services, has experience working with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism, as well as issues related to homelessness, substance abuse, and children’s behavioral health. She is dedicated to ensuring people have opportunities and support to achieve their goals and dreams within the community.