Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 11, 2018) – The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs presented Abilities First employee, Patti Jones-Krause, with the 2018 Code of Conduct Recognition Award at the Abilities First administrative offices in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. on Thursday, October 11, 2018. Patti Jones is one of four individuals in NY receiving the honor.

The Code of Conduct Recognition Award recognizes staff that embodies the ethical standards outlined in the Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs. Employees who assist people with special needs are required to sign the Code, which ensures that people “live self-directed meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect, and protected from harm.”

The official press release by the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs stated, “Patti Jones-Krause, Abilities First, Wappingers Falls – Helping people in her care live self-directed, meaningful lives has been the driving force behind Patti’s 17-year career at Abilities First. Recently, she advocated tirelessly for a day habilitation participant who was living in an unsafe environment. She pushed until he was discharged to a place of his own choice, which was what he wanted. Patti can often be found visiting service recipients at their homes on her days off.”

Abilities First has had a long-term commitment of providing a cohesive culture of compassion, empowerment, and respect for people with a variety of disabilities through educational, vocational, residential and habilitation services. It presently serves over 1,500 children and adults throughout the Hudson Valley.