Arc Minnesota recognized the work of Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid’s Minnesota Disability Law Center (MDLC) with its annual Public Policy Recognition award on May 25th. The award honors individuals or groups whose efforts in disability law and/or disability policy have benefited individuals with disabilities and their families. The Minnesota Disability Law Center has helped thousands of Minnesotans with disabilities achieve better lives. MDLC was celebrated for its advocacy and legal work – work that protects the rights and services of people with disabilities in Minnesota.

Arc Minnesota’s presentation lauding MDLC included its activities and successes over the past four decades, and Luther Granquist, former staff attorney; legal director Pamela Hoopes; and current staff attorneys Bud Rosenfield and Dan Stewart were all cited for their contributions to the organization’s work. Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid’s retiring executive director Cathy Haukedahl, and retiring attorneys Anne Henry and Patricia Siebert were also recognized for their distinguished service to the agency.

The Minnesota Disability Law Center is the designated protection and advocacy system for Minnesota and addresses the unique legal needs of Minnesotans with disabilities. The center provides free legal assistance to individuals with disabilities statewide on civil legal issues related to their disabilities. All individuals with disabilities are eligible to receive help, regardless of age or income level.