BOSTON: Richard and Cindy Bissell of Grafton received recognition at the 2001 Department of Mental Retardation Statehouse Recognition Ceremony on March 30. The ceremony, entitled “In Partnership with Communities” and hosted by WBZ-TV’s Bob Lobel, honored fifteen individuals and/or groups throughout the state for their progress and accomplish-merits that have been achieved through inter-personal, interagency and collaborative efforts.
The Bissell’s are parents of twin boys with disabilities who determined a need in the Central Region of Massachusetts for information about disability-related resources. Working in partnership with the Central Region of the Department of Mental Retardation and central region resources, they created and maintain the www.communitygateway.org website. Families, provider agencies, staff, individuals with disabilities and community members are now able to access disability information for local, state, and national resources. The Bissell’s work with large and small groups to provide links to their website and keep online resource information current and accurate.
The Mental Retardation community held numerous events throughout the state in March to commemorate the month as Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities month. Regional, facilities and area offices working in concert with families and boards hosted a series of local events conferences, legislative receptions and recognition ceremonies to honor the accomplishments of people with developmental disabilities.