The Porto Charities Advocacy Awards Gala showcased the impact of belonging for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Arlington diocese.
This gala, now in its third year, gathered 420 people at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly May 2. Guests included families, priests and school representatives, all united in celebrating advocates dedicated to enriching the lives of those with disabilities.
A central moment of the night was Bishop Michael F. Burbidge presenting the Catalyst Award to Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde in recognition of his enduring and significant contributions to promoting inclusive Catholic education throughout the diocese. Bishop Burbidge spoke about the church’s call to embrace and celebrate the unique gifts of each person.
Other honorees included Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria (Outstanding Employer); Sheila Moran of Holy Spirit School in Annandale (Outstanding Educator); Zoe Wallace of Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School in Potomac Shores and Ella Nasr from Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington (Outstanding Peer Mentors); and St. Anthony of Padua School in Falls Church (Outstanding School). During the awards ceremony, heartfelt videos were presented about each of the awardees.
The gala was not simply an event about individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; it was an event with them. Their energetic presence was felt throughout the evening. Serving as engaged volunteers, they warmly greeted guests, promoted the auction, and helped during the lively paddle raise. They were present everywhere, including dancing to the tunes of DJ music.
Porto Charities introduced the Laura Lee Self-Advocate Award, in honor of the daughter of St. Paul VI Catholic High School Options program founder Stephanie Lee. The inaugural recipient was Elizabeth Eisenberg, a young woman with Down syndrome. A graduate of both St. Paul VI and the George Mason LIFE program, she now works at St. Mark School in Vienna, where she attended middle school.
“Tonight was a beautiful demonstration of the incredible things that happen when we champion true belonging,” said Leo Alonso, president of Porto Charities. “Seeing our youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities actively participating throughout the evening, witnessing the heartfelt appreciation for Bishop Loverde’s lifelong commitment, celebrating the work of our awardees — it all underscores the vital importance of our mission. We are immensely proud of everyone and we leave this evening energized and more determined than ever to continue our work.”
The gala raised a total of $420,000, which Porto Charities plans to use to increase grants to diocesan Catholic schools that serve students with disabilities, as well as provide tuition assistance to diocesan educators pursuing special education certificates and degrees.
