The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs has announced its six Code of Conduct and Champion Award winners for 2022. These awards honor individuals who work tirelessly to improve the lives of people with special needs.
The Code of Conduct Award is given to staff members who embody the ethical standards outlined in the Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs. Employees who assist people with special needs are required to sign the Code, promising to help people “live self-directed meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect, and protected from harm.”
Among this year’s recipients is Shonda Williamson who works for Heritage Christian Services. Shonda Williamson’s nomination was submitted by the mother of a person in her care. She describes Williamson as “a wonderful role model, exhibiting humor, calmness, and compassion.” Williamson is said to be a stable influence for the people she supports. She encourages them to be independent and learn the skills they will need to make good choices in the years ahead. Williamson also risked her own health by nursing people with COVID back to health.
Other winners statewide this year include: Faith Howell, Opengate Inc.; Tammy Anderson, Office of People with Developmental Disabilities; Zalil Bacchus, Ohel; Connie Erdmann, Creedmoor Psychiatric Center; and Beverley Walker, Camelot Counseling.
Justice Center Executive Director Denise M. Miranda joined Advisory Council Chair Bill Gettman in congratulating this year’s award recipients.
“The job of a direct care worker requires them to be at their best every single day so they can support those in care. I am honored to be able to highlight these dedicated individuals who have left a lasting impression on their colleagues, the individuals they support, and all of us at the Justice Center. The care provided in New York is second to none thanks to their commitment to ensuring everyone lives self-directed lives free from abuse and neglect,” said Miranda.
Executive Director Miranda also presented four people with the agency’s Champion Award. Nominees can include individual staff members, community members, people receiving services, or organizations that support the mission of the Justice Center. This year’s winners include: Geneva Genovese (Surrogate Decision-Making Committee), Keith Peterson (New York City Administration for Children’s Services), Sonny Provetto (Vermont Center for Responder Wellness), and Shannon Stockwell (Mental Hygiene Legal Services).
A recording of the awards ceremony and workforce video is available on the Justice Center’s website, https://www.justicecenter.ny.gov.
Provided information
