Josh Self Advocate Award
Honoring Josh Cohen of The Arc Rockland, recipient of The Arc New York’s 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year Award for his leadership and advocacy across the disability community
The Arc Rockland’s Josh Cohen Named The Arc New York’s 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year
The Arc Rockland is proud to announce that Josh Cohen has been named The Arc New York’s 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year, an award that highlights the achievements and contributions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who not only use services of The Arc New York, but also help shape those services for the betterment of others.
The award was presented at The Arc New York’s annual conference in Albany, where Josh was recognized for his outstanding leadership and dedication to advocacy. Over the past three years, Josh has demonstrated remarkable growth—developing the knowledge, courage, and confidence to take on key leadership roles within The Arc Rockland’s Self-Advocacy Board.
In 2024, Josh was elected Mentor, and earlier this year, in May 2025, he was elected Vice President. In these roles, he has empowered his peers to express their voices, embrace their strengths, and take part in shaping the programs and supports that impact their lives.
Josh’s warmth, insight, and advocacy have made him a trusted leader and friend throughout The Arc Rockland community. His work continues to reflect the mission and values of The Arc—to promote inclusion, dignity, and self-determination for all.
