robin dewey - 2017 (Brinley)
Robin Dewey is an example of how community involvement can not only improve the lives of hundreds of people but make the community a better place to live and work. Her leadership has resulted in the betterment of hundreds of individuals with disabilities and their families and support personnel. She has shared her vision, commitment and leadership abilities in a range of community activities including her support for music and the arts, athletics, fundraising, nutrition and gardening, and work skills development. In addition to leading the innovative and highly successful program Team Davis, she works full time as an occupational health and workplace safety trainer for the University of California, Berkeley and is a member in good standing of the International Organization of Odd Fellows (IOOF). Robin has made a significant impact on the Davis community and the lives of hundreds in a number of important ways including:
Founded, organized and leads the largest all volunteer organization providing sports, social and educational opportunities to individuals with developmental disabilities in the Davis area. Under her leadership, the organization has grown to serve over 160 families in more than two dozen annual programs on a budget of less than $20,000 a year. She is President of the Board of Directors.
Supports music and the arts by hosting house concerts to raise money for struggling musicians and promoting other scheduled music and arts activities in the area.
Actively contributes to fundraising and community support initiatives as a member of Odd Fellows International, Davis Lodge.
Helps promote the integration of youth and adult persons with disabilities into the community. She frequently donates her personal time and money to helping at risk and vulnerable youth, including at times taking them into her home.
Regularly houses international students and adults and supports their integration into the community.
Has spearheaded the integration of services and collaboration with numerous other organizations in Davis including UC Davis Best Buddies, UC Davis Autism Awareness Association, DHS Best Buddies, Ags United, City of Davis Alt Rec, Davis Aquadarts, Special Olympics of Northern California, Soroptimists of Davis, Davis Odd Fellows, and Change of Pace
As a Coordinator of Public Programs with the Labor Occupational Health Program at the University of California Berkeley, Robin developed a curriculum, called Staying Safe at Work: Teaching Workers with Disabilities About Health and Safety on the Job.
Awards presented at Chamber Dinner Jan 20, 2018, UCD’s ARC Ballroom
