Patrick Hughes, president of Evanston-based Inclusion Solutions, was honored this week by the Points of Light Institute at an event held at the Kennedy Center in Washington that’s to be broadcast on NBC television at 8 p.m. next Monday.
The institute, founded by former president George H.W. Bush, recognizes those who have reached out to others and advanced the modern-day concept of service. The evening included musical performances by Bon Jovi, Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood. Former presidents Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush also attened the event.
Hughes, a graduate of Evanston Township High School and the University of Kansas, says he began his commitment to service while still a student at KU when he befriended a disabled young man and brought him to his fraternity house to meet with peers his own age.
That gesture turned into Natural Ties, a campus service organization that reached out to disabled young people and gave them an opportunity to interact with people their peers. At one time Natural Ties was represented in fourteen college settings.
Hughes went on to found Inclusions Solutions which helps individuals with disabilities to enjoy many of the same services that most people take for granted.
Products include BallotCall which helps disabled voters in the voting process; FuelCall, a device that can be used by gas stations to summon assistance for drivers who cannot reach or use traditional gas pumping facilities and OrderAssist, found in several Culver’s restaurants.
The OrderAssist device alerts the drive-thru attendant that someone with speech or hearing difficulties wants to use the drive-thru menu. The driver rings the OA bell and is handed a menu to fill out.
Big Bell, another Inclusion Solutions product, alerts storeowners to the need for assistance in entering stores, restaurants and other businesses.
Patrick Hughes honored
What a delight to see a great story about a great guy. Congratulations Patrick on this recognition.
Congratulations!
Patrick, I heard about your award from Steve Hagerty
I don't know you personally, Patrick, but congratulations! Our world needs many, many, many more people, like yourself, who are willing to help redefine what it means to be 'in-service' to one's fellow man or woman. That's something we have a tendency to lack these days – constructive compassion and empathy, including the gumption to take action on that front. Good job!
Points of Light Award
Patrick!
How fabulous for you! I cannot think of anyone who deserves this award and so richly fills its goals as you. Congratulations — to you and your devoted and able crew! I am so proud to know you. You have enriched many lives, including mine.
Keep up your glorious mind-changing work, and I know you will!!
Congratulations from the bottom of my heart!
xoxoxo