Hoyer Awarded the Advocate Award at Melwood's 50th Anniversary Gala
OXEN HILL, MD –Last night, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) was awarded the Advocate Award at Melwood's 50th Anniversary Gala for his support of Melwood and advocacy for people with differing abilities.
"I thank Melwood for this award, which is humbling and will serve as a powerful reminder of the important work we continue to do together," stated Congressman Hoyer. "Every American who wants to contribute to building our country and stronger communities ought not to be held back because of a differing ability, and for a half a century, Melwood has provided a lifeline to individuals by helping them with critical skills and placing them in jobs that provide independence and dignity. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we recommit ourselves to Melwood's mission to advocate for and empower individuals with differing abilities to transform their own lives through opportunities of employment, job training, life skill improvement, and supportive and recreational services."
"Much of Melwood's work helped lay the foundations for the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act, bipartisan legislation I was proud to lead to passage in the House in 1990 and watch as it was signed into law by the first President Bush," continued Congressman Hoyer. "I look forward to continuing our work together for many years to come, and I'm confident that Melwood will continue to carry out its mission of hope, justice, and equal opportunity for another fifty years and beyond."
Founded in 1963, Melwood is a nonprofit organization that creates jobs and opportunities to improve the lives of people with differing abilities. Melwood is the second largest disability agency in Maryland and serves more than 1900 people in the greater Washington, DC area.