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Robert Henry is the father of two teens with special needs, and he also has a nephew with a disability. Through his nephew, he was introduced to the Male Caregivers Advocacy Support group – which is sponsored by one of the Foundation’s supported organizations, Health Services for Children with Special Needs. Mr. Henry originally attended group meetings to lend his support to his brother-in-law, and he’s continued to be an active participant. Mr. Henry received the Foundation’s 2007 Advocates in Disability Award because he has reached out to other male caregivers in the group by providing encouragement and guidance. While he could have focused exclusively on his own children, he has generously chosen to help other parents become stronger advocates for their children.

David Liddel volunteers every week at the studio of Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic of Metropolitan Washington. He was introduced to the organization by his father, who volunteers as a recorder. David was not able to be a recorder, but he was determined to participate in the important work of the organization. He worked with the staff to identify a way to contribute to their efforts, and he now performs a vital quality control function. Through the process, David learned about the importance of advocacy. This is just one example of how he has become an advocate for people with disabilities – and for these efforts, he received a 2007 Advocates in Disability Award.

Stacy Cervenka currently works for Senator Brownback on disability rights. Through her job, she has been very active in the legislative arena. However, for Stacy, it does not stop there. In her personal time, she is a tireless advocate and supporter of people with disabilities. While she is rather new to the area, Stacy has already volunteered extensively in Baltimore at the Transition to Independence Club, a program for inner-city blind youth. Stacy has also been very involved in non-disability related organizations, where she’s always worked to incorporate disability issues and awareness in those places. For her commitment to the disability community, Stacy received a 2007 Advocates in Disability Award.