Longwood resident JJ Holmes received the 15th Annual Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award – the state’s top honor recognizing an individual with a developmental disability. The award is presented each year by the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) to a self-advocate who has demonstrated advocacy activities in keeping with the spirit of Idelio Valdes and has acted as an advocate, embraced the community, and worked with groups while encouraging others to do so by example.
Holmes was selected to receive this prestigious award for promoting disability awareness, advocating for himself and others, tirelessly educating legislators, attending committee meetings, and even going around the state to legislative delegation meetings. Holmes joined several advocacy groups like Florida Voices for Health and his goal was to increase the awareness of developmental disabilities and offer support for people with disabilities by advocating for services to include them in their communities.
Holmes uses a text machine or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to communicate and he helps others know what to look for in communication devices. He is enrolled in college for political science and helps people everywhere he goes. JJ has been waiting to be enrolled on the iBudget for years and has traveled the state to advocate for services for everyone on the iBudget waiver waitlist.
Holmes has been encouraging families across several media platforms. He is on the news, at meetings, in the discussions, and is constantly reminding families of the power of their voice. He is an inspiration to all in and around the developmental disability community.
Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples, Collier, District 28) presented the award on February 6, during the FDDC’s annual Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day (DD Day) dinner in Tallahassee.
“JJ is a hero to me and to so many others across our state. His courage, tenacity, and good humor have been inspiring and uplifted me on so many occasions. He is making a difference in the lives of people living with disabilities as well as their family members and caregivers,” said President Passidomo. “The Senate passed legislation inspired by JJ to increase services for people living with disabilities, ensuring more opportunities for home-based care as family members and other caregivers age. I was so honored to be asked to present this award. I know JJ and I will be lifelong friends, and I look forward to watching him continue to serve as a leader in healthcare and other policy areas.”
About the FDDC
The FDDC affects policy and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and their supports through education, advocacy, and partnerships. For more information, visit fddc.org.
Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples, Collier, District 28) presenting the 15th Annual Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award to JJ Holmes on February 6, during the FDDC’s annual Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day (DD Day) dinner in Tallahassee.
Photo: The Florida Senate
Senate President Kathleen Passidomo (R-Naples, Collier, District 28) with JJ Holmes, winner of the 15th Annual Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award.
Photo: The Florida Senate