Norman L. Karp (Provided photo)

SARANAC LAKE — Officials of the Tri-Lakes Center for Independent Living have announced the appointment of Norman L. Karp as their new executive director.

With a commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities, Karp brings passion and experience to the organization. He has more than 17 years of experience in independent living, disability advocacy, community development, peer mentoring and Social Security benefits advisement.

Karp is a resident of Saranac Lake and has worked throughout the North Country region for many years. After losing his eyesight more than two decades ago, he had to quickly learn to navigate his personal and professional life differently. Although he has encountered challenges along the way, he has never allowed his blindness to define his future. His experiences have enabled him to forge meaningful connections with others facing similar obstacles.

“As the new executive director of Tri-Lakes Center for Independent Living, I am excited to work alongside our dedicated staff to provide the services our community needs, especially for individuals with disabilities,” Karp said.

Karp’s passion and commitment to people with disabilities will continue TLCIL’s mission to promote independence, inclusion and equal opportunities for everyone throughout the communities the center serves. He is dedicated to expanding TLCIL’s partnerships, outreach and impact in the coming years.

“We are so happy to give Norman the lead as director of the center and to work with him to implement his wonderful ideas for the next phase in our mission to support people with disabilities at work, home and school,” said Roxanne McCarty, board of directors president. “We invite the community to our open house in January to see the center and to meet Norman and the staff: administrative assistant Erica Bell, independent living specialist Michael Rattee and program manager Tena Euber.”

Tri-Lakes Center for Independent Living is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities gain equal access to the communities they live in. For more information, call 518-891-5295 or visit tlcil.org.