Looking Upwards has presented its Awards for Excellence to a state legislator, a Middletown family and a Providence-based housing nonprofit, recognizing contributions to the organization’s work with children, families and adults living with disabilities.
State Rep. Terri Cortvriend, D-Portsmouth, who represents District 72 in Portsmouth and Middletown, received the Governmental Service Award. Cortvriend contacted the organization several years ago to learn about its work and has since supported legislative grant funding that paid for a computer with specialized software, tablets used for employee documentation and outdoor seating at two day and enrichment sites, according to Looking Upwards.
The Community Partner Award went to Jean Mello, Tricia Mello, John Mello Jr. and Jennifer Barrera. The family’s connection to the organization traces to their mother, Betty Mello, who worked as a nurse there, according to Looking Upwards. The family has made Bayview Hall in Middletown available for life skills classes, café gatherings, celebrations, dance and baking classes and other activities, and employment opportunities for people in Looking Upwards programs have been based there.
SWAP Inc. received the Business Partner Award for its role in converting a commercial building in Jamestown into 2 Hammett Court, 12 affordable and accessible apartments for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes, including people with disabilities. The nonprofit brought affordable housing and community development experience to the project and worked with Looking Upwards on planning and development, according to the organization.
Looking Upwards, based in Portsmouth, supports children, youth and families and adults living with disabilities.
