Staff Writer
It was at Presque Isle High School that Rep. Jeremy Fischer (D-Presque Isle) first became acquainted with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Years later, he’s been recognized for his advocacy on their behalf.
mosimage}Star Herald photo/Scott Mitchell Johnson
State Rep. Jeremy Fischer, D-Presque Isle was honored by the Maine Association for Community Service Providers for his advocacy on behalf of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Though unable to attend a recognition luncheon in Portland, Fischer received the award Nov. 30 in Presque Isle. Congratulating Fischer on his acknowledgment are, from left: Ron Langworthy, executive director for Community Living Association in Houlton; Fischer, Steve Richard, executive director for the Central Aroostook ARC; and Matt McHatten, president of the Central Aroostook ARC board of directors.
On Oct. 16 at the Holiday Inn By The Bay in Portland, Fischer was one of four legislators to be honored by the Maine Association for Community Service Providers.
MACSP is a statewide association of agencies that support to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Maine. The Legislative Awards program seeks to recognize lawmakers who have displayed commitment to and advocacy on behalf of Maine’s citizens with such disabilities. In addition to Fischer, other honorees included Rep. Hannah Pingree (D-North Haven), Rep. Bob Crosthwaite (R-Ellsworth), and Sen. Kevin Raye (R-Washington).
“This award means a lot to me,” said Fischer, who due to legislative responsibilities was unable to attend the October luncheon, but received the award Nov. 30 from Steve Richard, executive director of the Central Aroostook ARC, which is a member of the MACSP. “When I was in the National Honor Society at Presque Isle High School, one of our big projects was working with the Special Olympics.
“I’ve known Steve since then, and to receive this award from him is special,” he said. “All too often it’s easy for people to forget about people with disabilities. I came up after I was first elected to the Legislature and met with Steve to learn about their financial concerns and other issues, and have been advocating for people with disabilities ever since.”
According to a press release, Fischer, who is House chair of the Appropriations Committee, has “taken the time to learn about the potential impact on services of many budget proposals, and has actively advocated within the committee. He has shown outstanding leadership and worked tirelessly in a bipartisan manner to craft budgets which have garnered unanimous committee support.”
“Jeremy has been a huge supporter of ours [Central Aroostook ARC] for many years, and has toured all of our facilities and programs,” said Richard. “He truly understands the services we provide and he has taken that to a statewide level.
