Georgetown County recently received the Golden Palmetto Award from the S.C. Department of Disabilities and Special Needs for its work in support of people with disabilities.
“Georgetown County has demonstrated its continued support for people with disabilities in the local communities,” said Elizabeth Krauss, Executive Director of the Georgetown County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs (GCBDSN). “County leaders are always finding ways to improve to make the community more accessible, and we are grateful for their efforts.”
SCDDSN’s Golden Palmetto Award is given annually to one county that provides exceptional support to citizens with disabilities and special needs by putting this population first through various programs, resources and opportunities. Georgetown County has exemplified this standard through various efforts, including its Parks and Recreation Department’s Take-A-Kid Fishing Day, which focuses on inclusion. Additionally, Georgetown County Parks and Recreation is a strong supporter of the local Hugs for Horses Therapeutic Riding program, which serves those with disabilities.
In addition to recreational programs, Georgetown County employs those with disabilities, invites DDSN and related groups to speak at County Council meetings, and provides other platforms to spread the word about disability services. One shining example of this exposure is the Georgetown County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs’ ability to raise more than $35,000 on Palmetto Giving Day, thanks to the county providing opportunities to share important messages.
“We have wonderful, dedicated partners in Georgetown County who really understand the challenges that come with creating programs and services for our constituents,” said DDSN Commissioner Stephanie Rawlinson, whose district includes Georgetown. “We can’t thank them enough for their work and look forward to future collaborations that will benefit the amazing people we serve.”
SCDDSN is the state agency that plans, develops, coordinates and funds services for residents with various severe, lifelong disabilities. Populations served include individuals with traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities.