This spring, UnitedHealthcare proudly sponsored the inaugural Dougie Awards presented by the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Massachusetts CEO, Jesse Eller, and UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement New England CEO, Mary Snyder, had the privilege of presenting awards to two autism self-advocates who have persevered throughout the past year to make a difference for someone with autism or for the autism community.
“The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism is an organization committed to helping people affected by autism live their life to the fullest,” commented Snyder. “We’re so honored to partner with an organization whose mission so closely aligns with ours.”
The Dougie Awards were presented to 17 winners who each received $500 donations and 15 winners who each received $250 donations in their name to the autism-serving organization they’re associated with. A total of $12,250 was disbursed directly into the autism community in celebration of the Autism Acceptance Month Dougie Award winners. Nominees included autism program teachers, therapists, parents, and self-advocates who have made a positive impact for someone with autism or the autism community.
“UnitedHealthcare is proud to support the Dougie Awards, whose recipients have contributed to making a positive change for people with autism” said Jesse Eller.
The Dougie Awards winners were announced on Facebook Live events that took place on April 28th and May 12th, featuring performances by America’s Got Talent Winner, Kodi Lee, and virtual choir, Spectrum of Sound.
