Lafayette Reporter

Lafayette, LA – The Lafayette Consolidated Government (LCG)’s Awareness Committee for Citizens with Disabilities is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Disability Awareness Awards Ceremony, scheduled for October 8, 2024. This annual event, organized by the Mayor-President’s Awareness Committee for Citizens with Disabilities, honors individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to enhancing the lives of those living with disabilities in the community.

The Disability Awareness Awards aim to recognize outstanding efforts in promoting accessibility, inclusion, and support within Lafayette Parish. The awards celebrate those who demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The award categories this year include:

- **Business of the Year**: Recognizes a Lafayette business that has shown exceptional service and support to the disability community through inclusive programs and activities promoting social integration.

- **Non-Profit of the Year**: Awarded to a disability-related non-profit organization excelling as a vital resource via new programs, grants, or enhanced services benefiting individuals with disabilities.

- **Youth of the Year**: Honors a young person under eighteen who has demonstrated outstanding advocacy or actions making a significant impact on the disability community.

- **Public Servant of the Year**: Given to an individual in public service providing exceptional support and opportunities for people with disabilities in Lafayette Parish.

- **Vickie Nettles Advocacy Award**: Celebrates an adult with disabilities showing exceptional advocacy and representation for the disability community through personal achievements and efforts to assist others.

- **Lynette Fontenot Community Achievement Award**: Recognizes an individual demonstrating extraordinary dedication resulting in significant advancements in support, inclusion, and access.

Nominations are open until August 30, 2024. The public is encouraged to submit nominations to honor impactful contributions. For more information on the nomination process or to submit nominations, visit www.lafayettela.gov/dac or contact Harlon Cowsar at hcowsar@lafayettela.gov.