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October 2, 2024International Center of the Capital Region Recognizes Consumer Directed Choices for Excellence in Advancing Cross-Cultural Dialogue
Later this year, Consumer Directed Choices (CDChoices) will be recognized by the International Center of the Capital Region for its significant impact in fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and belonging (DEIAB).
The not-for-profit agency, which provides services for seniors and people with disabilities, will receive a 2024 Achievement Award, while its director of operations Hongwei Zhang will be honored for her contribution to the organization’s DEIAB efforts.
Since its founding in 1997 by Constance Laymon, a woman with a disability and a fierce advocate for the disabled community, CDChoices has long been committed to fostering an inclusive environment where people of every background are treated with dignity, respect and individual autonomy. Today the organization actively recruits caregivers from diverse backgrounds, cultures and nationalities through its Workforce Recruitment Portal, translates all paperwork for easy electronic signatures and ensures consumers are matched with a caregiver who aligns with their language and cultural preferences.
“Our vision is to create a culture of belonging, where people with disabilities and seniors can live independently in an environment of their choosing, without stigma or barriers,” said Christopher Graber, CEO of CDChoices. “It is an immense privilege to be recognized for this work and we are eager to continue to seek solutions to further enhance the consumer experience.”
Zhang, who joined CDChoices in 2021, is responsible for overseeing the organization’s operations and growth strategy. Instrumental in the creation and rollout of the Workforce Recruitment Portal, Zhang has been crucial in removing barriers and improving consumer access to cultural and linguistic needs.
“Having immigrated to America from China only knowing basic English, I understand the importance and value of implementing inclusive services that allow our consumers to feel most comfortable,” said Zhang. “I would like to thank ICCR for this incredible honor and my colleagues at CDChoices for their tireless efforts to improving accessibility.”
Both recognitions will be presented during ICCR’s Achievement Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, November 6 at Hudson Valley Community College.
