Pittsburgh, PA (12.10.2021) - Each December, Achieva recognizes citizens and organizations that have done or achieved extraordinary things when helping people with disabilities lead lives of personal significance. On December 13th at 6 p.m., Achieva will host its annual Awards of Excellence during a livestream event, available for all to enjoy at www.achieva.info/aoe2021.
This year, 12 recipients will be honored for positively impacting the disability community through their passionate and innovative actions in their personal and business lives. “Some of the Pittsburgh region’s most inspirational people will be highlighted, whether it’s for their advocacy, philanthropy, individual accomplishment, or their company’s commitment to people with disabilities,” said Stephen Suroviec, Achieva’s President and CEO.
WTAE’s newly promoted noon anchor and weekday mornings traffic reporter Elena LaQuatra will emcee the event. Elena is no stranger to the Awards of Excellence. In 2019, she accepted the Yvonne Zanos Excellence in Media Award for her commitment to reporting on important issues to people with disabilities and their families.
Among the honorees is Dr. Josie Badger, who provides youth development and disability consulting services for transition and leadership development organizations. The Cecil and David Rosenthal Community Award will be granted to David Caliendo for his volunteer efforts with Meals on Wheels and his employment at Giant Eagle’s Market District store in Pine. Achieva’s highest honor, the Sattler Humanitarian Award, will be given to Greg Fajt, a Pennsylvania Licensed Certified Public Accountant, former Chief of Staff to former Governor Ed Rendell, and dedicated board member for many organizations including Pittsburgh Vision Services, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Korean War Veterans Memorial Fund, Beginning with Books, and Saint Anne’s Home.
Achieva acknowledges and thanks event sponsors AmCom, Paycom, Giant Eagle, PDC Pharmacy, HomeLight, and Beacon Health Options for supporting the awards ceremony.
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Achieva is a non-profit organization located in southwestern Pennsylvania providing lifelong supports to people with disabilities and their families. Achieva envisions a community where all people with disabilities lead lives of personal significance. Our services range from early intervention therapies and employment supports to special needs trusts and supports in the home and community. Achieva advocates for, empowers, and supports people with disabilities and their families throughout their lives.