We’re incredibly proud to announce that two exceptional members of our community are being honored with awards from important organizations in Keshet’s field of work in May. This recognition not only highlights their individual excellence, but also amplifies Keshet’s reach and the credibility of our mission to the larger community.
Please join us in congratulating Wendy Lacey, DSP and GADOL Vocational Coordinator, and Michelle Friedman, Keshet Board Chair, on their awards.
Wendy Lacey, Arc of Illinois Direct Support Professional Award
At the 74th Annual Arc of Illinois Convention, Wendy was announced as one of only five direct support professionals across Illinois to receive the Direct Support Professional Award. This honor acknowledges individuals for their outstanding, dedicated direct care service and support to persons with developmental disabilities. Keshet and our adult families are so grateful to have Wendy on our team.
From her nomination:
“Wendy leads by example and represents the best qualities of successful direct support professionals. Over the course of nearly five years at Keshet, Wendy has built meaningful relationships with the 40+ adults in Keshet’s day program. The world of disability services would grow in unimaginable ways if there were more people like Wendy working at all providers.”
Michelle Friedman, Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies Lay Leadership Award
Michelle has been Keshet’s board chair since 2020. In that time, she has played instrumental roles in creating Keshet’s current strategic plan and the launch of Keshet’s capital campaign to build a centralized home for programs and services. Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies award recognizes Michelle’s service to Keshet, our community and the human services field.
From her nomination:
“Michelle has distinguished herself as a hands-on board chair. Not a day goes by without her thinking about Keshet, working for Keshet and reaching out to Keshet donors. As a blind woman, Michelle brings a deeply personal passion to Keshet’s mission of creating a community of belonging for all. She inspires others by being a lead fundraiser, donor steward and, most importantly, an incredible advocate on behalf of the disabled community.”
Also, “Honorable Mention” – IPADD Unite, Arc of Illinois Distinguished Service Award
Although IPADD is not a Keshet program, one of its founders is Keshet parent, Ellen Bronfeld. IPADD is an incredible resource for information related to adults with developmental disabilities. IPADD’s purpose is to give those who care about adults with developmental disabilities a dedicated online platform for networking, advocacy and information-sharing.
You can recognize Wendy, Michelle or Ellen’s accomplishments by making a gift to Keshet in their honor.
