Resident Wins Community Star Award

The Department for Persons with Disabilities (DPD), of Oak Ridge, would like to congratulate Donald, who received the New Jersey Association of Community Providers (NJACP) community Star Award on Wednesday May 25 at the 12th Annual Community Stars Awards Dinner at the Princeton Westin at Forrestal Village in Princeton.   It was a special night for all who attended, including Donald's brothers Craig and Gary and Donald's dad, Don Sr.

Donald is a 52-year-old man who lives at the Fitzpatrick House Group Home in Pompton Lakes, which is part of the DPD, Diocese of Paterson. Donald has been a long time resident with the DPD, moving there originally in 1991. 

Donald has worked at the Daughters of Miriam day program in Clifton since 2000.  

“Donald is a hard worker, dedicated friend and has an infectious smile that can light up a room”, said DPD’s Director of Development and Public Relations and former Fitzpatrick House Director, Chris Brancato.

Donald lived at home with his family in Cranford until he was 25 years old.  He attended Cranford High School and graduated with his class in 1978. 

After graduation, he worked at the Occupational Center of Union County in Roselle.  He moved into the Union County ARC Poet’s Place Group Home in Westfield,  in 1984. Four years later, he moved into the Fanwood Group Home and lived there until he moved to the DPD in 1991. 

Two of Donald’s brothers, Gary and Craig (Community Star award recipient in 2006) also live at the DPD.  Donald also had a sister, Denise, but she passed away in 2010.  Donald holds Denise’s memory and the memory of his mother Doris close to his heart.  Donald is a caring sibling and a loyal son to his father, Don.  One of Donald’s favorite activities is going out with his brothers and father on monthly trips to Applebee’s. 

“Donald is a true gentleman who has found peace in his life,” said Fitzpatrick House Director Pam Barrett.  “Donald has experienced some tough times throughout the past five or six years and has overcome a variety of obstacles to achieve stability and independence.  He has worked diligently to make a positive change in his life and in the lives of others. Donald can light up a room with his smile and is happy when doing the things he enjoys with people who he loves," Barrett added. 

The Community Stars Awards Ceremony represents men, women and children with intellectual/developmental disabilities who successfully live in the community supported by provider agencies. 

"We were so proud of Donald for being selected as the DPD’s 2011 Community Star.  He is a wonderful person who has truly made a difference in the lives of those around him.  It was a memorable evening for all who attended,”  Said Scott Milliken, DPD’s Executive Director.  

You can follow the DPD on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dpdcc  To donate to, learn more about, or visit one of the DPD’s programs please contact DPD Development Director Chris Brancato at 973-406-1104 or at Chrisb@dpd.org.