EUREKA >> The Board of Directors for the Redwood Coast Regional Center (RCRC) and the Area I Developmental Disabilities Board of Directors have announced Julie Ahern as this year”s Lake County recipient of the annual David A. Isom “Excellence in Service” Award.
Each year, this honor is presented to individuals who provide exceptional services to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake and Mendocino counties. Nominations are made by RCRC clients and families.
The award honors the legacy of Isom, who served as the executive director of RCRC for many years and who was dedicated to improving the educational opportunities and community inclusion of persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families, and always kept a focus on the person”s dignity and quality of life.
Ahern is the executive director of Solutions for Independence, based in Middletown. She is described in her nomination as a professional who always considers “who you are, what you like and don”t like, and what you can do on your own.”
She is known for encouraging the people she serves to live the way they desire, to choose the people they want to assist them, and to maintain as much independence as possible. Whether teaching and supporting individuals directly or serving as an administrator, Ahern is recognized for her dedication.
The David A. Isom Award nominations are opened in March of each calendar year. For information, contact RCRC at 445-0893.
