Disability Action Center NW, Inc.

Disability Advocates Honored
Group's philosophy to work toward civil, equal rights

Coeur d'Alene Press - 20 January 2005
www.cdapress.com
By Joe Butler, Staff Writer

COEUR d’ALENE — A few months ago, Disability Action Center put out a call for nominations for the area’s top advocate for the disabled.

Employees at the advocacy center sent out more than 100 fliers asking for nominations, hoping to find who the community considers the best person or organization working to protect the rights of those with mental or physical disabilities.

But once the selection committee looked over all the submissions, they decided more awards should be given.

“So many people work around here who don’t get recognized,” said Amy Dreps, coordinator of the Coeur d’Alene office. “Even though some are professionals, there are those who really go above and beyond the call of duty.”

On Tuesday, a day after national celebration of the civil rights, the center presented its first-ever advocacy awards at the Coeur d’Alene City Council meeting

Beth Dagastine, a multiple sclerosis sufferer, the head of a local MS support group and a longtime strong advocate for MS issues, received one of two Disability Rights Advocacy Awards. The second went to Ginger Seaman, who works at Dirne Clinic.

“Our awards coincided with Martin Luther King Day, which is appropriate timing because DAC’s philosophy is working for civil rights and equal rights,” Dreps said.

Other awards were presented to:

Patrice Wheeler, an assistive tech specialist at North Idaho College who has worked with students with disabilities since 1997. she also runs the mentoring program, transcribes Braille and offers other services.
Jennifer Arnold, who has advocated for the disabled throughout the state, including speaking with state legislators attending rallies and working with people with mental illnesses and developmental illnesses.
Tina Flynn, an area audiologist, who offers free audiological services at senior centers and retirement homes, plus her own office.
Kathy Crawford, a psychological social rehab specialist who works with mental health clients. She also has worked for 20 years in helping clients reach self-determination and personal responsibility.
Bob Carter, an employee at Vocational Rehabilitation Services since 1999, which works with many people with disabilities.
Jayne Strange, who works for TESH and has worked with developmentally delayed individuals.
Coeur d’Alene Mayor Sandi Bloem was also given an award on behalf of the city for its support of the disabled.