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7.09 | Bancroft Self-Advocates Appointed to Council on Development Disabilities
Haddonfield, NJ - July 2009 - The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities has welcomed two new members, both of whom are self-advocates served by Bancroft NeuroHealth.
Governor Jon S. Corzine appointed Todd Emmons and Russell Fried to the Council, a federally funded agency that promotes self-determination, independence and productivity for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
As members of the Council, Emmons and Fried contribute to a family-centered organization that helps individuals with developmental disabilities achieve personal goals and have control over their own lives, with the same rights, responsibilities and opportunities as all New Jersey residents.
Fried has been affiliated with the Council for many years, participating in programs and on committees that help safeguard the rights of people with disabilities. A 1986 graduate of The Bancroft School, the Laurel Springs resident continues his association with Bancroft as a member of several advisory committees, and as an officer of the organization's self-advocacy panel. He is employed by the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey.
Emmons, a Voorhees resident, actively participates in state and national issues giving voice to individuals with developmental disabilities. He is also a facilitator of the Council's Monday Morning Project which brings together community members and individuals with disabilities to discuss how local, state and federal policies can be more inclusive.
"All of us at Bancroft are extremely proud of Todd and Russell, who have distinguished themselves so commendably as self advocates," said Toni Pergolin, president of Bancroft NeuroHealth. "We strongly support their efforts since it reinforces our mission of helping individuals achieve independence and living to their fullest potential."
Founded in 1883, Bancroft NeuroHealth annually serves more than 1,300 children and adults with developmental disabilities, brain injuries and other neurological impairments. Based in Haddonfield, NJ, Bancroft has sites in Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Ocean, Salem and Middlesex counties in New Jersey, and in Delaware. Programs include education, rehabilitation, vocational, residential, evaluation and treatment services.