Assemblywoman RoAnn Destito received the Caring Person of the Year Award at the Upstate Cerebral Palsy Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at the Radisson Hotel in Utica. The award honors individuals committed to humanitarian causes and who, by their own actions, demonstrate their commitment to individuals with differing abilities as well as educating the broader community about acceptance and inclusion.
Assemblywoman Destito has always provided exceptional opportunities to individuals throughout the state as well as through involvement in the local communities. Throughout the years she has played a fundamental part of securing necessary resources to facilitate the development of various new initiatives. With vast enthusiasm, Assemblywoman Destito selflessly proposes new ideas that enhance the community, such as granting significant funding to establish a School Based Health Center at Donovan Middle School in Utica. Assemblywoman Destito is a facilitator for change with an open mind and an open heart, finding ways to connect segments of our community in unique and varied ways that result in strengthening individuals and families.
Upstate Cerebral Palsy is the premiere provider of direct-care services and programs for individuals who are physically, developmentally, or mentally challenged and their families, currently employing 1,800 full and part-time employees at over 74 locations throughout Madison, Oneida, Herkimer and Lewis Counties.