The mission of inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is resonating more deeply than ever across the Arlington diocese as Porto Charities celebrated its annual Embrace Gala.
Now in its fourth year, the fundraiser drew a crowd of 475 to the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly April 24 to celebrate the ways people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are embraced in Catholic parishes and schools and workplaces in the community. The event was filled with families, clergy and school representatives, all united in a common purpose — to honor the dedicated advocates in the diocese who work to build a culture of life and true belonging for people with disabilities.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge welcomed attendees. There was a tribute to Bill Dalgetty and Bill Mundy, two of Porto Charities’ founding members who retired from its board of directors in December after nearly two decades of service.
Bishop Burbidge presented the Porto Charities Catalyst Award to Susan Rinaldi, director of expanded services at Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, for her significant contributions to advancing inclusive Catholic education and supporting youth with disabilities seeking employment and community. In a heartwarming moment, Susan stood before the crowd with her sister, Emily Dalgetty, who has Down syndrome, as she thanked her and the entire community of individuals with disabilities for the joy they bring to their friends and families. The crowd broke into a spontaneous singing of “Happy Birthday” for Emily, who was celebrating her 40th birthday that evening.
Also honored: St. Timothy School in Chantilly (Outstanding Employer); Erin Thompson (Outstanding Self-Advocate); Wanda Anderson of St. Thomas More Cathedral School in Arlington (Outstanding Educator); and Queen of Apostles School in Alexandria (Outstanding School). In addition, four exceptional students were recognized as Outstanding Peer Mentors: Luke Sparrow (Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria); Anna LeNard (Bishop O’Connell); Jadeyn Winmill (Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School in Potomac Shores); and Rylie Hurst (St. Paul VI Catholic High School in Chantilly).
Porto Charities introduced the Lumen Cordis Award, which was presented to Jordan Smith Jr., a senior, standout basketball player and Peer Mentor at St. Paul VI. Smith has used his national platform — including being named player of the year by Naismith and Gatorade — to elevate individuals with intellectual disabilities. Committed to play for the University of Arkansas in the fall, he was celebrated for his consistent dedication to advocacy both on and off the court.
The gala was energized by the presence of the individuals Porto Charities serves. This was not merely an event about people with disabilities, but one hosted with them. Teens and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities served as volunteers, greeting guests and promoting the auction before joining the crowd on the dance floor later in the night.
The event raised more than $400,000, which will allow Porto Charities to continue to increase grants to Catholic schools and religious education programs in the diocese, provide professional development and scholarships for educators pursuing degrees in special education, and facilitate meaningful employment for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“This tells me people understand the value of our mission,” said Leo Alonso, Porto Charities president and CEO. “They appreciate the gift of the lives of those we serve and want to improve opportunities for all to grow in their faith and live with meaning and purpose, regardless of ability. This evening has energized our team to continue this important work.”
Williamson is communications coordinator for Porto Charities.
