Last night, I had the great opportunity to attend the American Foundation for the Blind's Helen Keller Achievement Awards fundraising gala at the Marriott Downtown in New York City. This was my first opportunity to attend the event, as I was in the area for work. I thought I would share with you my impression of this outstanding occasion.
The Achievement Awards were initiated in 1994 to honor our long-time employee and internationally recognized icon, Helen Keller. I cannot begin to explain how much the work of Helen Keller inspires me in my work and life. With a namesake like Helen Keller, it's no surprise that this award is the highest honor bestowed by AFB. The event was hosted by AFB President and CEO Carl Augusto, and none other than Mr. Jeopardy himself, Alex Trebek. I can tell you that most of my meals growing up revolved around Alex Trebek and Jeopardy!, as my twin brother, mother, father, and I battled it out for trivia supremacy. Alex Trebek won a Helen Keller Achievement Award in 2001 for his work to make Jeopardy! accessible to blind contestants, so his hosting was quite appropriate.
This year's Helen Keller Achievement Awards were presented to AT&T, Genentech, and Christine Ha. AT&T was recognized for its longtime dedication to making cell phones, mobile access to U-verse (cable television), and other products accessible for persons who are blind or have vision loss. Genentech was presented with an award for its work to create solutions and treatments that improve the lives of those with macular generation and vision loss. These treatments impact the lives of so many, including my own grandmother prior to her passing.
Christine is someone who holds a special place in my heart. You may have read my posts about the intelligent and creative Christine Ha. Christine won the FOX Network's "MasterChef" Season 3. I watched every episode and can't say enough about her. You can find her latest show, "Four Senses," on the Web; it's receiving great reviews. I had the opportunity to chat with her after the Achievement Awards, and she was kind and gracious, which I feel is rare among "celebrities." You know, because I'm known for hanging out with celebrities like Jay-Z, Matt Damon, and Alf all the time. Just kidding; I don't know any celebrities (hold on—is that Beyoncé calling me?). But back to Christine—I truly admire her cooking ability, writing, and presence. I can cook, but I am no MasterChef. I can tell you from my travels that youth and adults who are blind or visually impaired are inspired by her accomplishments, but I believe this is just the beginning. I asked Christine when her first restaurant will open up because I will definitely make a reservation.
David Paterson, the former governor of New York State, presented the Helen Keller Achievement Award to Christine. He told a funny story about his first time leading the prosecution in a court room; it was charming and insightful. Notable persons filled the room, including many AFB board members and friends of AFB. I heard many people discussing their bids on the silent auction items, trying to make sure they came up with the top bid. Others were quite interested by the online auction that is available until midnight on Friday, June 20. Visit the auction and get your bids in. I have my eye on the vacation in Mexico, just saying.
I enjoyed my time networking with the award recipients and attendees, and I am proud that AFB recognizes these organizations and individuals who work so hard to expand possibilities for those with vision loss. I felt lucky to have been able to attend the Helen Keller Achievement Awards. If you get a chance to attend, I highly recommend it. You might get to see and meet next year's Alex Trebek, David Paterson, or Christine Ha. Take the opportunity to read more about the event, get your bids in on the online auction, and save the date for next year.
