Senator Spilka Named Vinfen Public Official of the Year

Senator Karen E. Spilka, a Democrat from Ashland who represents Framingham received the 2015 Public Official of the Year award from Vinfen in recognition of her advocacy on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families.

Dr. Bruce Bird, President and CEO of Vinfen, presented the award at the Vinfen Family Advisory Council’s 8th Annual Celebration of Family Partnerships at the Four Points by Sheraton in Norwood.

“Improving access to high quality services for people with disabilities is a deeply personal issue for me, and I am honored to accept this award,” said Sen. Spilka. “Thank you to everyone in the Vinfen community for your tireless work on behalf of our loved ones.”

Susan Wornick, formerly of WCVB-TV, was the Master of Ceremonies for the event, which featured Pete Earley, a former Washington Post journalist and criminal justice reform advocate, as keynote speaker. Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Commissioner Joan Mikula and Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services Commissioner Elin Howe also spoke at the event.

Vinfen is a non-profit health and human services organization and provider of community-based services to individuals with disabilities.

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Photo courtesy of Vinfen