Options employee Diane Celano-Carnahan is the recipient of the Justice Center’s 2016 Code of Conduct Recognition Award for exemplifying the ethical standards outlined in the Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs. The Code provides a framework to help people with special needs to “live self-directed, meaningful lives in their communities, free from abuse and neglect and protected from harm.”
A resident of Port Jefferson, she has worked at Options for Community Living, Inc for the past 28 years and is currently a community residence supervisor responsible for supervision of residential staff and coordination of services for residents recovering from mental illness. Celano-Carnahan was cited for her exceptional commitment to the people she serves – including organizing and planning a wedding for two of Options’ residents. She also was recognized for her diligence in maintaining culturally diverse programs.
“We are so proud of Diane,” said Yolanda Robano-Gross, executive director, Options for Community Living. “The Justice Center’s award is particularly well deserved because it recognizes all of the qualities that Diane exemplifies: respect, dignity and concern for the well-being of Options’ program residents.”
Celano-Carnahan received a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania. She worked for Planned Parenthood prior to joining Options for Community Living in 1988 as a full-time counselor. Through the years, she has held positions of increased responsibility before assuming her current role as a community residence supervisor.