Can we get a round of applause for all our nominees who were awarded at the 31st annual, “My City, My Place” Brighter Future Awards?! Last Friday was a day of singing, motivational stories, and lots of smiles and laughter as we celebrated those in our community who work tirelessly to provide support to people with disabilities in the city of Philadelphia. We had the chance to attend this event and support one of our very own CIS participants who was awarded (way to go John!), as well as our nominees from Bon Appetit at the University of Pennsylvania.

The day started with a number of CIS Art Works participants exhibiting their work before the award luncheon started. George, Jaither, Steven, and Patricia were able to promote and sell their work, and received a lot of compliments from everyone! Afterward, we attended the main event and witnessed a tremendous performance by Spin Choir, who had the whole crowd up!

We are so happy to have nominated a well-deserving group of folks who help expand employment opportunities for CIS participants. Since 2016, Lauren, Molly, Sean, and Daniel have helped more than 35 CIS participants gain employment in Food Services at Penn. An astounding 25 CIS participants are currently employed there, making Bon Appetit at Penn one of the city’s most significant employers of people with disabilities.

Another momentous success of the afternoon was one of our very own CIS participants, John, winning the Self Advocate Award. He was recognized by CIS Manager of Employment Services Diane Haggerty, who was there to support him and who has a great relationship with him. Diane mentioned that they talk every day—twice a day! Our Director of Business Development, Erin Phovilaychit, joined us to celebrate John as well.

Big thanks to the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services. We are so proud of John as well as our awardees from Bon Appetit at Penn. Congratulations to each of you, and thank you for letting us celebrate you and your work!