News and Announcements
The Stars Were Shining Again at Our Awards and Recognitions Banquet
After a two-year hiatus , it was a triumphant night of celebration and dancing on Friday , April 29 , when approximately 350 participants , family members , staff , board members , supporters , and partners came together at Pinstripes Northbrook for NSSRA ' s Shining Stars Awards & Recognition Banquet .
This year ’ s gathering allowed NSSRA to recognize outstanding participants , families , staff , advocates , partners , community members , and friends who truly made a difference in 2021 and in previous years .
“ After a few years of uncertainty surrounding this event , it is great to have a full house and celebrate safely together again ,” said NSSRA ’ s Executive Director Craig Culp . “ When we last had a Shining Stars Banquet , we announced that we were pursuing a facility opportunity … Fast Forward three years , and we are proud owners of the premier facility for the recreational needs of individuals with disabilities in the country : The Mitchell L . Slotnick Center . It is an amazing facility worth celebrating .”
Nine individual awards were given to fourteen recipients .
The Shapiro Family of Highland Park was honored as the 2021 Mitchell L . Slotnick Friend of the Year . Long-time supporters of NSSRA , the Shapiros became one of the most generous contributors to NSSRA ’ s recent capital campaign by naming the Ali Cat Lounge in honor of their daughter Ali . Throughout her many years with NSSRA , Ali has tried just about every program NSSRA offers at least once . Executive Director Craig Cup noted , “[ The Shapiros ] are generous supporters of NSSRA and our participants . Their long-term vision of their daughter and this agency impacts everyone who interacts with NSSRA today and future generations .”
The 2021 Family of the Year award went to the Schuman Family of Highland Park . Adult participant Jamie is a part of NSSRA ’ s adult day program , Enriched Lifestyles for Adults ( ELA ), and traditional programs . “ No matter the situation , Jamie greets everyone with enthusiasm , and her smile and hello are enough to make everyone ’ s day ,” said Recreation Manager Rebecca Luecke . “ She gets this from her family , as they are all very welcoming and kind .” The Schumans have also provided significant financial support for participant scholarships , transportation services , and the creation of the Schuman Family Library at the Michell L . Slotnick Center .
This year ’ s Adult Participant of the Year award went to Bobby Teel of Glenview . Teel , a talented artist , has participated in various NSSRA programs for almost 15 years , beginning in elementary school . Teel recently showed tremendous growth while participating in new NSSRA opportunities . He displayed great independence , consistency , and dedication to his NSSRA schedule throughout the many virtual programs he participated in . “ It is wonderful to witness participants grow throughout their NSSRA experiences , and Bobby exemplifies this in every way ,” said Recreation Manager Dani Czarnik .
Ed Walsh of Highland Park was recognized with the 2021 Gator Athlete of the Year award for his dedication and commitment to Gator Athletics and extraordinary sportsmanship . After many years as an athlete , Walsh recently transitioned from player to team manager of the Gator basketball team .
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