On August 19, our very own Barbara Boyett was presented with the EP Maxwell J. Schleifer Distinguished Service Award during a special pre-game ceremony on Disability Awareness Night at Minute Maid Park.

Sponsored by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company and in cooperation with Exceptional Parent Magazine and the South Carolina Agency, the EP Maxwell J. Schleifer Distinguished Service Award honors individuals for their outstanding service to individuals with disabilities.

 Barbara shared these thoughts about her award:

"I was both honored and humbled to be a recipient of the EP Maxwell J. Schleifer Distinguished Service Award. Working with the children, parents, volunteers and staff of Avondale House over the past 22 years has been such a privilege.  All of the recognition and accolades should actually go to each of them.  They are truly amazing!  I am especially grateful to the Houston Astros for hosting Disability Awareness Night, to Exceptional Parent Magazine for bringing disabilities to the forefront, enhancing awareness and promoting acceptance, and to Mass Mutual for hosting so many from the disability community at the game on the 19th.”

Mass Mutual and the Houston Astros generously donated tickets to the August 19 game so Avondale House staff and families could celebrate Barbara’s honor and also enjoy a night at the ballpark. We appreciate their thoughtfulness, and thank everyone who attended the game to support Barbara and Disability Awareness Night.

Congratulations Barbara!