Annapolis, MD - County Executive Steuart Pittman and the Anne Arundel County Commission on Disability Issues recently announced the name of the 2024 DisAbility Awareness Day Honoree. This annual award is presented to an individual in the community who has made a lifetime commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. The Honoree will be recognized at the annual DisAbility Awareness Day event on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Severn Senior Activity Center.
This year, we honor Jillian Amodio, a remarkable advocate for individuals with disabilities and mental health awareness. A licensed social worker, Jillian has dedicated her career to uplifting those facing mental health challenges. In 2018, Jillian founded Moms for Mental Health, an online support group connecting those facing mental health challenges with vital resources and compassionate support. Her personal experience raising a child with severe mental illness while managing her own mental health fuels her advocacy for creating safe spaces for others.
As an adjunct professor at Anne Arundel County Community College, Jillian empowers future mental health professionals to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Currently a therapist at Waypoint Wellness Center, she offers personalized care that emphasizes resilience and self-discovery.
Jillian's advocacy extends beyond her roles in education and therapy. A former board member of the Anne Arundel County chapter of NAMI, she has actively worked to reduce stigma surrounding mental health, including collaborating with Senator Jeff Waldstreicher on Senate Bill 810 to ensure suicide prevention information is visible in high-risk areas. Through her writings in Annapolis Moms and the Capital Gazette, Jillian spreads awareness, fosters understanding of mental health issues, and is dedicated to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world for individuals with disabilities.
“It is Jillian Amodio’s mission to make the world we live in a better place. Her advocacy work for individuals with disabilities and mental challenges is creating a legacy of support that will continue to uplift others far into the future,” said Karrisa Kelly, director of the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities. “Jillian’s drive, compassion, and commitment to others is unmatched and will leave a lasting impact on the lives of so many people facing challenges and their families.”
This event is held in October each year during National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Businesses, employers, and community groups will also be recognized for their contributions to improving the lives of people with disabilities over the past year. The event will feature performances by The Musical Autist and The Talent Machine along with exhibitors sharing information on disability resources. ASL interpreters and CART will be available for the duration of the event.
The event is free and open to the public.
For more information about this event or the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities, contact the ADA Office at 410-222-4383. Anyone needing accommodations other than ASL or CART interpretation should contact that office by phone or at agmart11@aacounty.org at least seven days in advance of the event. TTY users, please call via Maryland Relay 7-1-1. All materials are available in an alternative format upon request.
~ Making Life Better ~
