Henry County proclaims Disability Rights and Resource Center’s 10th anniversary; executive director outlines services

The Henry County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 22 issued a proclamation recognizing the 10th anniversary of the Disability Rights and Resource Center and invited the center’s executive director and board members to the podium for remarks and a photo. The board approved the proclamation by voice vote, recorded as five in favor with one member absent.

Carol Tooning, introduced as executive director of the Disability Rights and Resource Center, told the board the nonprofit operates across the West Piedmont Planning District with offices in Rocky Mount, Martinsville and Danville. She described the organization as consumer-driven — with 51% of its board and staff identifying as individuals with disabilities — and said the center provides five core services: advocacy, peer support, independent living skills, information and referral, and transition services.

Tooning reported that the center assisted 286 individuals this year, including 79 people aged 65 and older, and that last year the organization provided more than 5,000 hours of community service. She emphasized home-modification work and transition support for students moving from school to employment and invited supervisors to the center’s 10-year anniversary event.

The proclamation cited federal milestones including the Americans with Disabilities Act and National Disability Employment Awareness Month and noted the center’s role in ensuring access to local government services, transportation and education. The board formally moved and seconded acceptance of the proclamation and took a photograph with invited guests before resuming the agenda.

The board’s action was procedural; no funding or policy change was attached to the proclamation. The center’s anniversary event date and planned public activities were described as forthcoming by Tooning.