Puller Center’s VersAbility Resources Gala
The 2019 Annual VersAbility Resources Gala, presented by Old Point National Bank, raised $92,800, a record for the organization’s signature fundraiser.
VersAbility Resources has been supporting people with disabilities for over 65 years as a nonprofit serving over 1,700 people with disabilities of all ages with Early Childhood, Student Services, Day Support, Housing, and four diverse Employment Programs. They serve the entire Hampton Roads region, as well as the 10 counties on the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck, from offices in Hampton, Newport News, Gloucester at the Puller Center on Main Street, and Norfolk.
“We envision a world where people with disabilities enjoy dignified, productive lives of their choosing as fully accepted members of society,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, President and CEO. “Thanks to the generosity of our community and partners, we have even more resources to help people with disabilities live a life without limitation, and to help people with all abilities shine.”
Success of the annual gala, held Oct. 11, 2019 at the Marriott in City Center, came thanks to sponsors, ticket sales, a silent auction and attendees moved to support the mission with donations after hearing more about the lives of people served during the event.
“Through quality employment, day support, housing, and early intervention services, we build fulfilled lives for people with disabilities throughout Hampton Roads and beyond,” Grzelkowski said.
In 2018, VersAbility Resources served over 1,700 people with disabilities of all ages, supporting them in leading lives of purpose and belonging.
VersAbility’s employment programs are broad and diverse, including loading food on Navy ships and connecting calls for the Air Force around the globe.
“People with disabilities are ready, willing, and able to work,” Grzelkowski said.
VersAbility Resources’ Transition to Work program helps students with disabilities develop the hard and soft skills that allow them to successfully transition from the special education classroom to successful employment.
The largest group served by VersAbility Resources are infants and toddlers with disabilities who need tailored therapies to reach their full potential, with early intervention services for over 1,000 children and their families in 2018.
“Each person with a disability has their own story,” said Scott Rawles, Chief Marketing and Development Officer for VersAbility Resources. “Thanks to the generosity of so many, we can reach more and develop new services to meet emerging needs.”
Learn more about VersAbility Resources at versability.org.