The Lifeworks Empower Celebration, our 2023 fundraising event, was a huge success! A non-stop evening that highlighted the amazing accomplishments of the people we serve, the importance of the mission of our agency in supporting over 2300 people and their families and how this is made possible by our extraordinary staff. The services provided by Lifeworks, play a crucial role in the empowerment and accomplishments of the people we serve.  Over 275 guests attended this special event that opened with a lively reception as guests enjoyed the Artists Gallery where the creative works of our Lifeworks community were on display.  The auction prizes were many with one highlight being artwork created at the event by Patrick, a member of our Lifeworks community. His creation was successfully auctioned off later in the evening to the highest bidder.  The celebration continued with four outstanding video presentations showcased the staff and the individuals in Day Habilitation, In Home Supports, Family Support, and Community Residential Program.  Event highlights included a slideshow that included thank you notes to staff, live presentations, recognition of staff members Mike Fuller and Joanne Sarno-Smith for 40 years of service.

Emmy award-winning journalist Heather Hegedus served as the emcee for the Celebration. Heather most notably is a former anchor for Fox 25 news. She recently joined Fidelity Investments as editor/on-air anchor for Viewpoints and Market Sense. Having a family member with autism and intellectual disability makes her passionate about helping special needs families advocate for themselves. Heather talked about her personal experiences in her opening remarks and superbly moved through the evening’s packed agenda, including leading a wonderful roundtable discussion with Cindy Wadon and Kevin Murphy, participant and coach, respectively, in our sports programs.

Proceeds from the Empower Celebration support the individuals and families we serve by providing the additional resources not met by state and federal funding. Resources like advocacy, life skills training, social and recreational programs, educational materials, quality improvements to the residences, individual and family emergencies, and so much more.