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Rosie Ryan (Advocacy Hero)
Rosie’s leadership and exceptional dedication as a State Council on Developmental Disabilities Councilwoman has inspired progress, uplifted voices often unheard, and helped build more inclusive and supportive communities for all. Rosie’s impactful service includes being a trusted spokesperson on committees such as the North State Regional Advisory Committee, the Statewide Advocacy Network, the Self Advocates Advocacy Committee and Shasta County’s People’s First Chapter.
As Rosie closes out her two consecutive terms on SCDD as a councilwoman, we celebrate her many contributions and thank her for leaving a lasting mark on the lives of so many. May her legacy of advocacy and inclusion continue to resonate throughout the communities she has so passionately served.
Gus and Robin Wilson (Everyday Hero)
It is an honor to nominate “Gus” the therapy dog and his handler, Robin Wilson. Gus is an English Mastiff who serves as a therapy dog, partnered with Pet Partners of Chico.
This nomination is for Everyday Hero as Gus is a gentle & loving Fella who practices humble acts of kindness wherever he goes.
Both Gus and his handler, Robin Wilson recently donated their time to attend the 2nd Annual Parent University Resource Fair facilitated by Butte County’s Special Education Local Plan Area otherwise known as “SELPA”.
This large-scale event had a variety of interactions occurring at one time and Gus quietly made his rounds providing a sense of calm to all those in attendance. Gus made an exceptional impact on and for individuals with varying sensory needs during an event that was multifaceted.
What a Guy! Three cheers for Gus and his passion for being a dedicated therapy animal since 2023!
Robin Keehn (Advocacy Hero)
Robin has been an advocate for a local people first movement for over 40 years. She is a fierce advocate for people with disabilities and helped to set up people first chapters across the region.
Robin receives this award for her advocacy into her retirement and beyond.
Steve Piluso (Superhero)
For the past 17 years, Steve has been the heart and soul behind the beloved Summer Kick Off event, creating a space of joy, inclusion, and celebration for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through his tireless coordination, Steve has turned this annual gathering into more than just a barbecue—it’s a cherished tradition filled with local resources, fun, games, and lasting memories. His unwavering dedication, compassion, and vision have touched countless lives, making him a true beacon of community spirit. Steve embodies the essence of a hero, and we are proud to nominate him for the Celebration of Heroes award.
Jeff Olson (Everyday Hero)
Jeff is a newer CMS but not new to FNRC, Jeff has continued to support each member of his team at all times. His door is always open and he is very caring. The team has had some recent tragedies, but with Jeff as CMS, it has made it easier for the team to feel supported and acknowledged in day to day tasks at the regional center.
Kandy & TLC Team (Barrier Buster Hero)
Teaching learning caring is a wonderful, small team ILS company that takes on a difficult load of cases, often finding above and beyond ways to get clients back to baseline and continue to support them afterwards to get everything that is needed.
Socorro Wylie (Everyday Hero)
Socorro just received a promotion to the general manager for the ARC thrift store. Not only does she work closely with her coworkers with special needs she also helps run the ARC thrift store that benefits and employs people with special needs in both the Chico and Oroville area.
She is a great manager who leads with kindness respect and honest ideals. It is her vision and passion that has helped transform the store and maximize success and potential.
It is my privilege and honor to recognize a leader like Socorro who has been such an inspiration.
Jennifer Edwards (Everyday Hero)
Jennifer Edwards is the very definition of an everyday hero. Her career has been centered around making a lasting difference in the lives of adults with developmental disabilities. For the past 18 years, she has been a constant source of compassion, dedication, and strength within our organization and our community.
Jennifer has worn many hats at The Arc, and in each role, she has brought a deep sense of purpose and heart. Jennifer eventually transitioned into a direct support role in our day program, where she truly found her calling. As a Day Program Instructor, she worked hands-on with participants, teaching essential life skills, promoting independence, and facilitating community integration. Her ability to connect with clients on a meaningful level is extrodinary.
Amber Robertson (Advocacy Hero)
Amber has worked so hard to make things in her small town accessible by all. Ever since she had her third child who has Glycogen Storage Disease type 4, where she won’t ever be able to walk, Amber has worked with the school to make their playground accessible by wheelchair and has worked on many more. She has become an advocate for those who can’t even talk yet. She has made her daughter have a better quality of life where she can play with her siblings without feeling left out of things. Amber deserves all the recognition we can give her.
Bryce Jagoe (Everyday Hero)
In the world of direct support, it’s rare to find someone as all-in as Bryce Jagoe. Since joining The Arc of Butte County in June 2023, Bryce has been a force of positive energy and commitment — someone who doesn’t just show up, but shows up fully for the individuals we serve.
Bryce began his journey with The Arc in the Family Support department, working in weekend Kids Program. There, he entertained children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, engaging them in creative and meaningful activities that brought smiles, laughter, and connection. His natural ability to connect with young people was apparent from the start.
Nevertheless, Bryce did not stop there — and frankly, it’s rare to see someone so new to the field take on so much, so willingly. He quickly became a key member of our Adult Day Program team, stepping into the role of Day Program Instructor with the same enthusiasm and dedication. He does everything you’d expect from a seasoned instructor — teaching life skills, encouraging independence, supporting community integration — and then he goes above and beyond.