STATEHOUSE (May 14, 2019) – State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) recently received the Champion of First Steps Award from Indiana First Steps.
Karickhoff, along with other state lawmakers, was recognized for his dedication for advocacy and advancing legislation, providing a better life for children with special needs.
“Oftentimes, parents or guardians of children with disabilities incur additional expenses, which can put a strain on the wallets of families just trying to do what is best for their child,” Karickhoff said. “Organizations like First Steps provide these young Hoosiers with the tools and support needed to more easily navigate their world and prepare them to live more independently today and in the future.”
This session, Karickhoff co-authored a new law establishing a task force to assess services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services will also develop a statewide crisis assistance system program for individuals with disabilities.
Indiana First Steps is the state’s early intervention system, which works to ensure all Indiana families with infants and toddlers experiencing developmental delays or disabilities have access to services like medical care, counseling, speech, physical therapy and more.
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State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo) represents House District 30,
which includes portions of Grant and Howard counties.
PHOTO CAPTION: (from left) State Rep. Mike Karickhoff (R-Kokomo), State Sen. Jean Breaux (D-Indianapolis), State Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis) and State Rep. Ed Clere (R-New Albany) receive the Champion of First Steps Award Friday, May 10, 2019, at ProKids Inc. in Indianapolis. Karickhoff was recognized for his dedication for advocacy and advancing legislation providing a better life for children with special needs.
