The Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services recently selected winners of the 2024 Disability Advocates Awards. The Disability Advocates Awards acknowledge individuals, organizations and/or businesses that go above and beyond to ensure that people with disabilities in Somerset County are fully included in the life of the community.  

The countywide call for nominations brought an enthusiastic response this year. In the end, the Advisory Council on Disability Issues (ACODI) chose an individual and organization for the 2024 Awards.

The award recipients and their nominators were invited to be recognized at the September 24th County Commissioners meeting.

Individual Category Winner: Joshua Gargano

Joshua Gargano, a resident of Somerset County and Chair of the Advisory Council on Disability Issues (ACODI), is recognized for his outstanding service demonstrating significant impact in meeting the needs of Somerset County citizens with disabilities. Joshua’s commitment to helping others and his advocacy work are truly remarkable. He has helped connect residents of Somerset County to resources, such as transportation and employment navigation. Joshua actively raises awareness and provides advice at the ACODI meetings.

Francine Gargano and Tom Franch nominated Joshua for his exceptional service, advocacy, and commitment to improving the lives of Somerset County citizens with disabilities. They described Joshua as an “extraordinary young man,” a “Somerset County gem,” and an invaluable resource for individuals living with disabilities. Through Joshua’s unwavering commitment, he has become an admirable and influential example for others to follow.

Individual Category Winner: Zanib Noor Akhtar

Zanib Noor Akhtar, Registered Nurse at Matheny Medical and Educational Center, is recognized for her advocacy on behalf of, or other exemplary support of Somerset County citizens with disabilities, and for outstanding service demonstrating significant impact in meeting the needs of Somerset County citizens with disabilities. Zanib goes above and beyond to support and represent the needs of her patients. Zanib is committed to promoting positive awareness as she raises awareness of the challenges and needs of individuals with disabilities. Zanib has made a difference for many families by demonstrating her compassion, empathy, and professionalism.

Muhammad Akhtar, a resident of Somerset County, nominated Zanib. He shared that Zanib's personal qualities are her perseverance and open heart, which have made her a true champion for individuals with disabilities. Muhammad stated, “Zanib Akhtar exemplifies the highest standards of advocacy, commitment, and service, making her an invaluable asset to the Somerset County community.”

Organization Category Winner: Planned Lifetime Assistance Network of New Jersey, Inc (PLAN|NJ)

Planned Lifetime Assistance Network of New Jersey, Inc. (PLAN|NJ) is a nonprofit organization that helps families of people living with disabilities answer the question, “who will care for my loved one when I’m gone?” PLAN|NJ is a statewide organization that offers exemplary care coordination, guided oversight of financial affairs, and compassionate actions to enhance quality of life. Whether the services are needed now or in the future, PLAN|NJ assists families in maintaining continuity and peace of mind for all concerns.

Elizabeth G. Farishian, RN, MA and President at PLAN|NJ Board of Directors nominated PLAN|NJ for advocacy on behalf of, or other exemplary support of Somerset County citizens with disabilities and for making a commitment to promote positive awareness of the needs of Somerset County citizens with disabilities. Elizabeth shared that PLAN|NJ currently serves 41 individuals with significant disabilities in Somerset County, including those with intellectual, developmental, physical disabilities, or challenges with mental health such as autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, severe mental illness and more.

Currently, PLAN|NJ is working with a grant from The Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation, which allows them to work directly to improve the social determinants of health of individuals with disabilities. PLAN|NJ hosts an annual Family Night Out at the Somerset Patriots to promote positive awareness of the needs of Somerset County citizens with disabilities.

The Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services and Advisory Council on Disability Issues are pleased to recognize Joshua Gargano, Zanib Noor Akhtar, and Planned Lifetime Assistance Network of New Jersey, Inc. (PLAN|NJ) for their outstanding support for persons with disabilities through advocacy, commitment, and compassion for county residents. Congratulations to these very deserving Award winners!