Steve and Mary Ellen Melaragni Win the Ted Rose Award for Outstanding Service

For 30 years, Ted Rose was a volunteer at CFCS, supporting our Developmental Disabilities Program by offering respite to families we serve and connecting with our clients. Ted was passionate about the values of our agency and brought that passion to the State House, where he regularly advocated for those who were unable to advocate for themselves. Ted did this work because he wanted to help people -- and for 30 years at CFCS, he did.

The Ted Rose Outstanding Service Award is given to a CFCS volunteer or someone who provides direct support to a CFCS client.  This individual embodies the attributes which Ted brought to his decades of work with CFCS: a commitment to the mission of the agency shown through volunteer efforts or through building a strong relationship with CFCS clients to help them reach their goals and enhance their lives. This award is intended to recognize those who help make our community an especially supportive, positive space for everyone we serve.  

This year, we are pleased to recognize Steve and Mary Ellen Melaragni with this award for their commitment to supporting our Independent Living Program. They are passionate about providing each young adult with a safe, well maintained apartment. Steve and Mary Ellen treat each young adult with the upmost respect, getting to know them during the move-in process, and teaching them how to navigate apartment issues. Both are passionate about being a part of each young adult’s growth and journey toward independence. As the Independent Living program has grown, both Steve and Mary Ellen have provided thoughtful guidance to help us better support our youth and improve service delivery. 

Congratulations, Steve and Mary Ellen, and we thank you for your continued support and collaboration!