St. Mark Church in Vienna transformed into a festive setting Dec. 6 as Porto Charities hosted its annual Christmas party, welcoming 160 people from across the diocese.
An organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Porto Charities designed the evening as a dual celebration: rejoicing in the birth of Jesus and honoring the profound gift that individuals with disabilities are to the church and the world.
Bill Dalgetty, longtime board member, led piano caroling, and, as in previous years, in a moving display of holiday spirit, children and young adults with disabilities flooded the stage to accompany him, singing with uninhibited passion and reverence. Following the carols, the energy shifted to the dance floor courtesy of DJ Garv. A talented professional with developmental disabilities, Garvin kept the crowd moving, serving as a role model and inspiration of professional success as he brought the community to its feet in celebration.
One of the night’s most anticipated moments was the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. As the special guests entered, the room lit up with a sense of wonder; the attendees greeted them with an authentic, heartfelt enthusiasm and unbridled joy that is often lost in the season’s hustle.
For Eileen Haupt, who traveled from Vermont with her daughter Sadie, who has Down syndrome, the atmosphere of acceptance was profoundly moving.
“Sadie longs for a Catholic community, which has been hard to find where we live,” Haupt said. “I have been following from afar all the work that the Diocese of Arlington and Porto Charities are doing, and today we came to experience it. Seeing all the young adults sing and dance together with such joy, and my daughter feeling so at ease and joining in the fun, makes me want to move to this area. It is just so beautiful to see the magic that is happening in this diocese.”
As the festivities wound down, it was clear that the event was more than just a party; it was the perfect ending to a year of hard work and advocacy. Leo Alonso, president of Porto Charities, looked out at the packed hall and noted that the event represents the heartbeat of the organization’s mission.
“This party is a great culmination of all the work that all of us — board members, staff, families, supporters and people with disabilities — have done all year,” Alonso said. “It is a blessing to gather as a community, celebrate with all the families, and truly form one big family.”
Williamson is communications coordinator for Porto Charities.
