Indianapolis — The three Easterseals affiliates serving Indiana honored Kelly Mitchell, director of Indiana’s Division of Disability and Rehabilitation Services (DDRS), at their second annual Legislator Appreciation Lunch on Jan. 10.
Leaders from Easterseals Crossroads, Easterseals Northern Indiana and Easterseals Rehabilitation Center in Evansville named Mitchell as Outstanding Advocate for Employment of People with Disabilities. Mitchell was unable to attend the event; however, DDRS associate director Cathy Robinson accepted the award on her behalf.
“Throughout her career, Kelly Mitchell has been an important voice for person-centered services for those with disabilities, particularly in advocating for employment opportunities and workplace inclusion,” said Donna Elbrecht, CEO of Easterseals Northern Indiana.
The Legislator Appreciation Luncheon was attended by Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch; state senators and representatives; legislative aides; and guests from The Arc of Indiana and INARF
In addition to recognizing Mitchell, the three Easterseals affiliates highlighted employment challenges for people with disabilities and shared success stories from individuals with disabilities who have found their fit in the workforce.
Easterseals Affiliates in Indiana
- Easterseals Northern Indiana is based in Fort Wayne and serves individuals and families in northern Indiana. It includes Easterseals Arc in Fort Wayne; Easterseals RISE in Angola; Easterseals Passages in Columbia City; and Cardinal Services in Warsaw.
- Easterseals Crossroads is based in Indianapolis and serves surrounding counties while also providing statewide services in assistive technology and resource facilitation services for people with traumatic brain injury.
- Easterseals Rehabilitation Center is based in Evansville and serves 22 counties primarily in southwest Indiana.