The Arc Multnomah-Clackamas nominates Bill West for the Lifetime Achievement Award:

Bill obtained his Masters of Special Education from Portland State University in 1981 and with it a special offering of advocacy through the teachings of professor Jean Edwards a well known educator and advocate for people with mental retardation and other disabilities. For over thirty years, he has been a tireless advocate for adults with developmental disabilities and their families. For over 20 of the 30 years he has been at work at the Arc of Multnomah-Clackamas for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He is a legend in the Portland community due to the tireless work he has accomplished in support of these community members and their families.

Bill has assisted people with developmental disabilities achieve inclusion in the community through his resource management, advocacy, counseling and skills-training. Numerous community members have learned to be their own self-advocates through Bill's patient and compassionate guidance. Family members have received direction and comfort from Bill's understanding and knowledge of systems and community policies and procedures as well as his reassurance and support.

Bill is a mentor and guide to adults with developmental disabilities and community partners who serve them. He has participated on numerous consumer advocacy committees and projects while offering the critical role of guidance and support to People 1^st of Oregon and People 1^st of Portland. He has worked tirelessly to provide information, training and guidance to the police community as they work to better understand and serve people with developmental disabilities. He has also participated in workshops and activities that promote spiritual enrichment.

Bill continues to devote many weekend and evening hours, over and above his work for the ARC of Multnomah-Clackamas to give special meaning to so many people who have developmental disabilities. Bill's dedication, caring and compassion for people who have developmental disabilities more than qualify him as the nominee for the Lifetime Achievement Making a Difference Award.

Thank you for the opportunity to bring recognition to this quiet, unassuming and dedicated man.

The Staff and Board of Directors of The Arc of Multnomah-Clackamas