Northrop Grumman Corporation, Major General Carl McNair, Jr. (Ret.), General Mark A. Welsh III and Betty Welsh were all honored with Advocacy Awards on April 19th at the Easter Seals Serving DC| MD | VA annual Advocacy Awards Dinner at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC.
Since 2004 this event has recognized individuals whose lives have been transformed by Easter Seals and the corporations, foundations and individuals who have made a difference for people with disabilities and their families. Over $800,000 was generated as a result of the 2016 event. These funds will be used by the Easter Seals to provide services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs, and their families, have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.
The Honorable Elizabeth Dole presented an Advocacy Award to Northrop Grumman and stated, “The Dole Foundation continues to partner with Easter Seals on education, training, respite care, and employment programs. Working together, we have been able to extend Easter Seals’ outstanding training programs to thousands of military caregivers who would not otherwise qualify for training through the VA.”
Major General Carl H. McNair, Jr. (Ret.) was presented an Advocacy Award by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter who had this to say of McNair, “He has exhibited a lifelong passion for children in the community, leading to many years of service to Easter Seals as a donor, volunteer, Board member, and now Emeritus Board Member. Leader in the military . . . leader in industry . . . leader in advocacy for children and caregivers . . . he inspires us to create a greater community that serves and embraces all.”
“As someone who has experienced profound life challenges, I completely understand the power of a supportive community. I don’t think I could have been here without it, Easter Seals is providing that very support,” said Academy Award nominee and Ambassador for Aviation, John Travolta. Travolta presented Advocacy Awards to General Mark A. Welsh III and Mrs. Betty Welsh.
Related: Easter Seals Honor Elizabeth Dole, Dr. Ralph Shrader with 2015 Advocacy Awards
