Geneva Public Library District Outreach Coordinator Lexy Rodriguez received an Inclusivity Impact Award at the annual Rising Lights Project Gala May 9, officials announced in a news release.
Rising Lights is a nonprofit in St. Charles that serves adults with disabilities with opportunities for socialization and education.
Rodriguez was one of two recipients of this year’s Inclusivity Impact Award. The other was Mike Outlaw of Outlaw Strength Inc., also in St. Charles.
Rodriguez was recognized for designing accessible, creative opportunities like robot lessons and book clubs. Outlaw was recognized for providing tailored, adaptive monthly strength training for Rising Lights participants.
Rising Lights held the gala at the Q Center in St. Charles, as both a fundraiser and a celebration of its participants, programs and community partnerships.
Rising Lights recognized Rodriguez for “bringing accessible, creative, and engaging opportunities to our participants.”
“From hands-on robot lessons to our current book club, she designs every visit with intention, accessibility, and deep respect for our community,” according to Rodriguez’s recognition.
As coordinator of the library’s outreach team, Illinois Library Association, Association for Individual Development and Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois has previously recognized Rodriguez for her work in community engagement and accessibility, according to the release.
In her acceptance speech, Rodriguez reflected on her longstanding partnership with Rising Lights Project, noting that she has worked with the organization since its founding five years ago.
“I just keep finding ways to come back and hang out with you,” she said, “because Rising Lights days are always a highlight of my week.”
The library’s outreach team partners with the Association for Individual Development, Ampersand Community Services, Joshua Tree, Marklund and the Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative.
More information about the library’s outreach services and accessible resources is available online at gpld.org/accessibility.