On Wednesday May 31, the call for the nominations of businesses, organizations, government officials, action groups and individuals was once again put out by Walton Options for Independent Living. The Most Valuable Partner Community Awards based on the ideals and titles of the Americans with Disabilities Act recognize and honor those in the Central Savannah River Area that have worked to create a more inclusive community for persons with disabilities.

“An inclusive community is one that welcomes diversity, sees the value of its members and embraces change for the benefit of all who are a part of it,” stated Tiffany Clifford, Executive Director at Walton Options. “Across the CSRA , there are individuals, businesses, organizations, and variety of other support networks working to create a community that embraces the spirit of inclusion, independence, and equality. These awards are a chance for those in the community to say thank you and recognize all the work the nominees have done. ”

The MVP Community Awards selects winners based on nominations submitted by the public for five separate categories. The categories include Inclusive Employment, Community Government, Public Accommodations & Communications, Outstanding Service Organization and Outstanding Individual Advocate. The awards will be open for public nominations May 31 – August 11, 2017 through online forms at www.waltonoptions.org/awardnominations. Hard copy/accessible forms can be picked at the Augusta Office at 948 Walton Way or requested via email, [email protected].

During the celebration of the ADA’s 25th anniversary in May 2015, Walton Options recognized a variety of businesses, organizations from around the CSRA that have given back to persons with disabilities in the community – creating the MVP Community Awards. Last year, the format of the awards was updated to include public nomination submissions. Public nominations provided the opportunity to learn more about the organizations, businesses and advocates throughout the CSRA.

“We are very excited to once again be hosting the MVP Community Awards. They are very unique as they are the only Public Awards in the CSRA designed to honor those who are working towards an inclusive community for persons with disabilities,” explained Ann Campbell-Kelly, Development & Communications Specialist. “Last year’s awards gave us an opportunity to see many of the fantastic projects, people and organizations that are at work in the local disability community. And now that the word is out about the awards, we can’t wait to see the nominations for this year!”

Finalists and winners will be selected by Selection Committees from across the Walton Options’ staff following the close of nominations. The finalist nominees will be invited to The MVP Community Awards Celebration Lunch where the winners will be announced. Barclay Bishop will once again be hosting and presenting during our Celebration on Wednesday, October 25, 2017.The Celebration will be held at the Legends Club on Washington Rd, Augusta, GA. Tickets to the event will be made available for a minimal cost through the Walton Options website later this year.