The Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services recently selected winners of the 2022 Disability Advocates Awards. The Disability Advocates Awards acknowledge individuals, organizations and/or businesses that go above and beyond to ensure that people with disabilities in Somerset County are fully included in the life of the community.  

The countywide call for nominations brought an enthusiastic response this year. In the end, the Advisory Council on Disability Issues (ACODI) chose an individual and organization for the 2022 Awards.

Winners in both the Individual and Organizational categories were invited to attend the October 25, 2022, Somerset County Commissioners Meeting.

Individual Category: Linda Rapacki

Linda Rapacki, Director of Mobility for Ridewise, is recognized for her commitment to advocating for independence. Linda teaches persons with disabilities how to use buses and trains in Somerset County. She works tirelessly to teach clients the knowledge to travel independently and safely. In addition, she creates the opportunity for many individuals to attend school, volunteer, work, and visit friends and family.

Linda was nominated by Mr. Andrés Ortiz and Ms. Donna Allison. Mr. Ortiz nominated Linda Rapacki for her outstanding service, demonstrating a significant impact in meeting the needs of Somerset County citizens with disabilities. Andrés shared that Linda taught him how to use rideshare (Uber) to get to his job and see friends. Linda explained step-by-step how to use Uber to Andrés and shared that she even followed the Uber to ensure that he was safe. Andrés is excited to continue learning with Linda how to ride the buses and trains.

Donna Allison, Executive Director for Ridewise, nominated Linda Rapacki for her advocacy on behalf of her exemplary support to Somerset County citizens with disabilities. Donna shared that she often receives letters of gratitude from Linda’s clients or their parents. Donna explained that learning how to travel independently for Linda's clients is life changing. 

Organizational Category: Somerset County Library System of New Jersey's Disabilities Committee

The Somerset County Library System of New Jersey’s (SCLSNJ) Disability Committee is recognized for their commitment to continuing the efforts of coordinating the annual Disabilities Job Fair after a two-year pause due to the pandemic. The 2022 Disability Job Fair was successful, with 107 attendees and 52 individuals interested in volunteering opportunities. In addition, the Disability Job Fair had in attendance nine volunteer and employment providers and 12 service providers.

The members of the SCLSNJ Disability Committee were nominated by Mr. Christopher Korenowsky, Director of Public Services, Somerset County Library System of New Jersey. Christopher expressed how involved each of their efforts were in coordinating the annual Disability Job Fair. He further explained that the event's success was finding the correct timing due to the reluctance of job seekers to meet in person and ensuring the fair was accessible and open to all. 

The Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services and Advisory Council on Disability Issues are pleased to recognize Linda Rapacki and the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey’s Disabilities Committee for their outstanding support for persons with disabilities through advocacy, commitment, and compassion for county residents. Congratulations to these very deserving Award winners!