THE ARC NM ANNUAL AWARDS PROGRAM
Our Annual Awards program provides an opportunity for you to recognize New Mexico community members and how they may contribute in significant ways to benefit the disability community. Nominate someone you know any time during the year. Think of that exceptional group or person, a local “hero” who deserves an award for all they do for the community. The categories represent ten awards: three self-advocate awards, and seven community awards. Awardees are recognized at The Arc’s annual conference.
The Self-Advocate Awards
The Robert LeCompt Jr. Leadership Award
Honors an individual with intellectual or developmental disability that has shown exceptional leadership in their community through community activism and/or public policy.
Tenacious Tommy Award
Honors a self-advocate who tenaciously pursues goals outside of others’ expectations. They truly break the mold and defies the label of ‘disabled.’ This person is an individual who dares to be different and is not influenced by others opinions of what is possible and what is not. We award you for having the courage to be yourself and pursue your own lifestyle.
The Bob Thomas Achievement Award
The Award is given in memory of Bob Thomas and honors an individual with intellectual or developmental disability that has achieved much in their life despite their disability and other challenges.
Agency of Distinction
Honors a public or private community organization that provides exemplary supports and demonstrates a commitment to community inclusion for people with disabilities.
Community Service
Honors an individual or group who has demonstrated commitment to the mission and positions of The Arc by volunteering time locally or on a statewide basis to enhance opportunities for people with disabilities by working on special projects or events.
Exemplary Educator
Honors a New Mexico educator or leader in education who has demonstrated excellence in providing for the education of students with developmental and other disabilities. Nominees for this award may include teachers, principals, administrators, school board members, college faculty or researchers.
Inclusive Employer
Honors a New Mexico employer with an exceptional record of providing inclusive community employment opportunities and accommodations for people with disabilities.
Public Awareness
Honors outstanding efforts by state and local media entities or individuals that create better public understanding of people with disabilities. The award recognizes a variety of broadcast, print, and internet mass media, including – television, radio, newspapers, magazines, books, podcasts, and blogs.
Work Initiative
Honors a person or a group who seeks or has the knowledge, skills and initiative to start and operate his/her/their own business or an employee who has positively contributed to a workplace setting.
Promising Young Leader
Honors an individual (under age 22) or a group whose members are age 22 or younger, who have demonstrated outstanding leadership potential as seen in volunteer efforts on special projects or events that enhance opportunities for people with disabilities in their community