News

Akron Municipal Court Judge Ron Cable has won the Milestones National Autism Conference 2024 Professional Excellence Award. Judge Cable will accept this award during the Milestones National Autism Conference on June 10, 2024.

This award is given to an individual who has made a contribution to improve the lives of those with autism. Judge Cable was chosen because of his dedication to the Connect Program, which he launched in 2021.

“The members of the executive committee were deeply impressed with Judge Cable because he truly models for others how to create change within the justice system. He is a wonderful example of embodied activism through his work in the community, that is rooted in his personal experiences. We look forward to welcoming him and his family into our Milestones community,” said Milestones Education Manager Monique Burgdorf.

Connect serves individuals adjudicated in the Akron Municipal Court who are primarily diagnosed with a developmental disability and are receiving services or eligible to receive services from a Developmental Disabilities Board. Many individuals may also have an accompanying mental health diagnosis. Other potentially eligible individuals are considered on a case-by-case basis. Examples of the developmental disabilities represented are autism, Down syndrome and communication disorders.  

Connect currently has 10 active participants and eleven graduates.

“Creating the Connect Program and watching the participants succeed has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Judge Cable. “I am grateful for all Milestones provides for individuals with autism and the support they offer families.”

Judge Cable and his wife are proud parents of three adult children, one of whom has autism. Judge Cable is an advocate for those with special needs and feels strongly that those with special needs be provided equal access to opportunities and treated fairly in all situations.

The Milestones National Autism Conference is a project of Milestones Autism Resources, which is headquartered in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. Milestones Autism Resources works to improve the lives of autistic individuals, families, caregivers and professionals by educating, coaching and connecting them with trusted resources. The conference schedule consists of key learning experiences and networking opportunities for autism advocates. The conference will take place on both June 10, 2024 and June 11, 2024 at Tri-C Corporate College East in Warrensville Heights, Ohio.

For more information about the Connect Program, visit https://www.akronmunicipalcourt.org/programs/connect/.

For more information about the 2024 Milestones National Autism Conference, including how to register and for the schedule of speakers, visit https://www.milestonesconference.org/.