To the editor:

The family of Jim and Isabel Vigna wishes to thank Cottonwood Inc., for awarding our family their lifetime achievement award.

Our handicapped sister, Linda, was a charter customer of Cottonwood beginning in 1972 and ending with her death in 2005. Cottonwood provided Linda an environment which greatly improved her quality of life. Cottonwood will always have a very special place in the Vigna family’s heart.

We experienced firsthand Cottonwood’s environment which allowed Linda to work to her capabilities, enjoy a life not possible at home, make lifetime friends and learn skills and responsibilities not possible otherwise. In reality, it should be the Vigna family who presents an award to Cottonwood Inc. for all they did for our sister, our family and the disabled in the local community and area.

We say thank you to all the customers who were Linda’s coworkers, housemates and friends and added so much to her quality of life. We say thank you to the loving Cottonwood staff and management for all you did in caring for Linda and contributing to her quality of life. We say thank you to the two volunteer boards who govern Cottonwood so effectively, giving of your time, talents and energy to help this great organization achieve new heights.

We say thank you to all the businesses who provide employment opportunities for the Cottonwood customers. You have learned firsthand how effective, dependable and loving the customers are and that the handicapped can effectively perform tasks within their capabilities.