Michael Brooks was named Self-Advocate of the Year by the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State (SANYS).
Mr. Brooks is a recent graduate of the SANYS U and a member of the Schoharie County ARC.
This statewide recognition is given annually to an individual that has worked hard to speak up for themselves and others and has done something that has improved the lives of other people with developmental disabilities or others in their community.
Cynthia Gilchrist, the Capital-North Regional Coordinator for SANYS and Mr. Brooks was nominated for spearheading efforts to educate his peers and his community about bullying.
With the help of other self-advocates from Schoharie County ARC and Herkimer ARC, Mr. Brooks has given several anti-bullying presentations and continues to work on those efforts and increasing awareness of how it impacts people of all abilities.
Mr. Brooks received his recognition from SANYS at a special presentation in his honor in November.
Tatianna Boba, assistant to Assembly Pete Lopez, also presented him with a New York State proclamation acknowledging his work with bullying and self-advocacy.