Renee Wood Winner of Regional Advocacy Award

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON INDEPENDENT LIVING TO RECOGNIZE RENEE WOOD WINNER OF REGIONAL ADVOCACY AWARD

June 30, 2020
Gahanna, Ohio

Annually, the National Council on Independent Living recognizes the advocacy efforts and work of individuals that advance the rights of individuals with disabilities as part of their annual conference. This year, the Region V Advocacy Award has been awarded to Renee Wood, who serves as a Governor appointed Council Member of the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council. Region V includes Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Renee has been a prominent leader of disability advocacy in Ohio for many years. Some notable work has included being the current Chair of the Ohio Olmstead Task Force, current member of the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council where she also serves on the Community Advancement and Advocacy Committee, and past Chair of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council. Renee’s work has impacted many across the state, and she continues to work towards making Ohio a better state for all people with disabilities.

“Renee Wood is spectacular! I can’t imagine a more worthy recipient. I always look forward to listening to Renee for many reasons, but it is her candor and honesty that have had such a powerful impact on me.” Jeff Davis, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

“Renee Would has worked in advocacy for decades. She pursues justice brings bureaucrats and elected officials to their knees. Renee’s excellent writing skills have made her a voice of the disability community.” Tim Harrington, Executive Director of the Ability Center of Greater Toledo

“As Chair of the Ohio DD Council, Renee made sure the voices of individuals with developmental disabilities were always heard. Her time as Chair helped to make the DD Council stronger and her tireless advocacy has benefited so many people across the state” Carolyn Knight, Executive Director of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

We at the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council are honored to have such a strong advocate like Renee to be part of our organization. She is a respected voice and powerful advocate that is always willing to ask the difficult questions and promote real systemic change.

Thank you, Renee, and Congratulations!