Event Archives - VersAbility Resources

VersAbility Receives Transformational Gift from TowneBank to Advance Expansion of New Inclusive Technical Workforce Training Center

Posted on December 4, 2025December 4, 2025 by AD P

VersAbility Resources announced that TowneBank has made a transformational $500,000 investment to advance the expansion of VersAbility TECH (Train, Educate, Certify, Hire), an innovative, first-of-its-kind workforce hub designed to prepare people with disabilities alongside people of all abilities for high-demand careers in shipbuilding, cybersecurity, logistics and manufacturing.

The gift, one of the largest single donations in VersAbility’s history, underscores TowneBank’s deep commitment to strengthening inclusive workforce opportunities across the region. This historic investment will accelerate the development of VersAbility TECH, expanding the organization’s current training footprint into what will eventually become a 75,000-square-foot workforce training center, offering employer-aligned training pathways in welding, logistics, marine coatings and more. The center will use universal design principles to ensure full accessibility while strengthening the region’s talent pipeline through industry-recognized credentials.

VersAbility TECH currently operates several high-impact training programs — including welding, IT/cybersecurity and forklift certification — and TowneBank’s investment will help scale these offerings while creating new employer-aligned credentialing pathways in the future, building pathways to independence and long-term career success for the people it serves.

“This generous gift from TowneBank is a powerful investment in the future of employment for people with disabilities. VersAbility TECH will redefine what inclusive workforce development looks like in Hampton Roads,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, President and CEO of VersAbility Resources. “By preparing people with disabilities alongside people of all abilities for high-paying, in-demand careers, we are helping employers meet critical talent needs while opening doors to economic opportunity for thousands of individuals. TowneBank’s leadership and commitment to community will make a lasting impact for generations.”

The VersAbility TECH center itself comes at a pivotal time, as only 41% of Virginians with disabilities are currently employed, despite major workforce shortages in key industries.

VersAbility TECH will help close this talent gap by expanding training capacity, removing barriers to credentialing, aligning programs directly with employer needs, and creating a scalable regional model for inclusive workforce development.

“TowneBank is honored to support VersAbility Resources and the groundbreaking work they are doing to build a more inclusive and resilient workforce,” said Alexis Swann, President of TowneBank’s Peninsula and Williamsburg markets. “The VersAbility TECH center will help ensure that every individual – regardless of ability – has access to robust training and successful careers. We are proud to invest in a vision that strengthens families, meets the needs of employers, and supports the economic vitality of the Hampton Roads region.”

VersAbility has already demonstrated strong training capacity, graduating dozens of welders and offering weekly forklift certification as it prepares for the continued expansion of VersAbility TECH.

“Employers across Hampton Roads are seeking skilled talent, and people with disabilities represent an untapped workforce ready to contribute,” said Casey Roberts, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Development for VersAbility Resources. “TowneBank’s remarkable investment in VersAbility TECH accelerates our ability to meet this need head-on, aligning high-quality training with pressing workforce needs and creating long-term economic opportunity for individuals and businesses alike.”

VersAbility 2025 Gala Raises Record Funds to Support People with Disabilities

Posted on December 1, 2025December 1, 2025 by AD P

VersAbility Resources’ 2025 Annual Fundraising Gala raised an unprecedented $210,000, marking the most successful event in the organization’s history. The sold-out celebration brought together more than 200 community members, corporate partners and advocates united by a shared mission — to empower people with disabilities to live, work and thrive in our community.

Held at The Mariners’ Museum, the evening featured an inspiring keynote address by retired Navy SEAL, author and motivational speaker Jason Redman, whose powerful message of resilience and leadership resonated deeply with guests. Attendees also enjoyed live entertainment by the acclaimed swing band Good Shot Judy, for a night filled with energy, generosity and community spirit.

This year’s gala marked the highest-grossing event in VersAbility’s history, a milestone made possible by the generosity of donors, sponsors and community partners.

TowneBank’s $50,000 contribution as the evening’s presenting sponsor helped set the tone for a record-setting evening of giving.

“We are absolutely thrilled by this tremendous outpouring of support,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, VersAbility’s President and CEO. “Every dollar raised helps expand opportunities for people with disabilities — from diverse employment programs to early childhood and residential services. This incredible generosity allows us to broaden our impact and transform the lives of people with disabilities of all ages for years to come.”

Funds from the gala will directly support VersAbility’s programs across Hampton Roads, including early childhood intervention, workforce training, residential services and the new VersAbility TECH Center, a first-of-its-kind workforce hub preparing people of all abilities for high-demand careers in the maritime and manufacturing industries.

Keynote speaker Jason Redman addressing guests during VersAbility’s 2025 Gala at The Mariners’ Museum

Two VersAbility leaders posing together at the 2025 Gala fundraising event

Tidal Wave Auto Spa in Gloucester Partners with Versability for Annual Charity Day Event on September 19

Posted on September 5, 2025September 5, 2025 by AD P

VersAbility Resources is pleased to announce that Tidal Wave Auto Spa named it a recipient of its 17^th annual Charity Day event, which will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025.

As part of the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back, Tidal Wave will donate 100% of wash proceeds made during the one-day philanthropic event to local charities and non-profit organizations.

Tidal Wave Auto Spa’s Gloucester location at 7027 George Washington Memorial Hwy is pleased to partner with Versability for this year’s event.

VersAbility Resources supports over 1,800 people with disabilities each year across southeastern Virginia, providing programs that empower them to live full, productive lives in their communities.

Versability will receive 50% of the proceeds made at this location during the September 19 event. The remaining 50% of proceeds will be donated to the company’s longtime corporate partner, Annandale Village, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing progressive life assistance to adults with developmental disabilities.

Over the event’s 16-year history, Tidal Wave has donated over $2 million to charitable organizations, with $686,353 raised at last year’s event. 2025 is set to be the company’s largest Charity Day event yet, with 295 participating locations across their 30-state footprint.

Tidal Wave Auto Spa is dedicated to making a positive difference in the communities it serves and was honored as a Champion of Charity by Professional Carwashing & Detailing. Beyond its annual Charity Day event, the company also gives back year-round through its fundraising program, which has helped raise over $5 million for local schools, organizations, churches, civic groups, and more.

What is Autism Awareness Month—and Why It Matters

Posted on April 25, 2025April 25, 2025 by AD P

Every April, Autism Awareness Month invites us to learn, reflect, and take action to support individuals on the autism spectrum. First established by the Autism Society in 1972, this month-long observance raises awareness, promotes acceptance, and encourages meaningful inclusion in our communities.

Autism is a developmental disability that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world. By shining a light on autism, we help dismantle harmful stereotypes, build empathy, and create a more inclusive society where everyone is valued.

Why It Matters

Embracing neurodiversity strengthens our communities. People on the autism spectrum bring unique talents, perspectives, and contributions to every space—at home, at school, and in the workplace.

At VersAbility Resources, we believe in empowering people of all abilities to live full, meaningful lives. Through our programs and partnerships, we help individuals with autism find purpose through employment, education, and community engagement. Because when everyone has the opportunity to thrive, we all grow stronger.

How You Can Make a Difference

Supporting Autism Awareness Month isn’t just symbolic—it drives real change. Here are five meaningful ways to get involved:

Learn and Share – Educate yourself and others about autism through trusted sources, lived experiences, and success stories.
Join Awareness Events – Attend local walks, fundraisers, or awareness days that support autism inclusion and advocacy.
Support Inclusive Employers – Choose to do business with companies that champion neurodiversity and hire people with autism.
Foster Inclusion Every Day – Advocate for accessible spaces, inclusive practice, and respectful interactions wherever you are.
Support VersAbility – Donate, volunteer, inquire about employing people with disabilities, or even just share this post with someone you know to help raise awareness and funds to fuel VersAbility’s mission.

VersAbility’s Commitment

At VersAbility, inclusion is more than a message—it’s a part of our mission and helps define who we are as an organization. We provide training, support, and employment opportunities that open doors for individuals with autism and other disabilities.

Whether it’s connecting people with meaningful careers, supporting transition programs for youth or building inclusive workplaces, we’re here to help everyone reach their full potential—every month of the year.

Join us this April and beyond in creating a world that embraces all abilities.

Community Funds Festive Spirit of Norfolk Outing for Adults With Disabilities

Posted on December 20, 2024January 29, 2025 by Steph H

Individuals in VersAbility Resources’ Day Support Program experienced a day of joy, community and celebration aboard the Spirit of Norfolk Dec. 19 thanks to generous donations received from the community as part of a Giving Tuesday fundraising campaign.

“We’re on a mission to empower individuals living with disabilities to lead full, meaningful lives of their own choosing,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, CEO of VersAbility. “The holiday season is a time for magic and connection, and we’re committed to ensuring everyone has the chance to feel included in its joy. For many of our participants, this holiday cruise was their first experience of its kind. Thanks to the incredible support we received, we were able to provide our Day Support Program participants with an unforgettable celebration that embodied the true spirit of the season—connection, inclusion, and pure joy.”

The Hampton-based nonprofit raised nearly $2,000 to fund this memorable holiday experience for 30 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

VersAbility’s Day Support program helps underserved adults and seniors with disabilities reach their highest level of independence and community engagement. The people served by this valuable program participate in a range of volunteer activities and projects within the community, enjoy arts and crafts, independently choose activities they have interests in, and participate in local recreational outings to parks, museums and events.

A man and a woman dance together on the dancefloor on a cruise ship

A man in holiday attire smiles while dancing on a cruise ship

Thanksgiving 2024 at VersAbility Resources

Posted on November 24, 2024January 29, 2025 by Steph H

We think Marcie from “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” said it best.

“We should just be thankful for being together. I think that’s what they mean by Thanksgiving, Charlie Brown.”

Thanks to you, our community, VersAbility Resources brought together people with disabilities on November 21 to give thanks over our annual Thanksgiving lunch.

VersAbility group posing during a Thanksgiving lunch

This heartwarming event has become a cherished tradition at VersAbility – serving a delicious Thanksgiving meal to individuals with disabilities who are supported by the organization’s programs.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of our community in helping us make this Thanksgiving special for the people we serve,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, CEO of VersAbility. “Our goal is to bring a sense of family and inclusion to all who join us for this meal, and we couldn’t do it without the support of our donors.”

In addition to contributions from the community, VersAbility’s annual Thanksgiving meal was made possible through the generous support of clubs in Kiwanis Capital District Division 13, a long-time partner committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

A man gives a peace sign while smiling and enjoying a Thanksgiving meal

Three people pose while enjoying a Thanksgiving meal

Donate to VersAbility Resources Fundraiser to Provide a Thanksgiving Meal to People with Disabilities

Posted on November 13, 2024November 13, 2024 by Steph H

VersAbility Resources is calling on community members to help bring joy and gratitude to people with disabilities this Thanksgiving season by contributing to its holiday fundraiser.

The nonprofit aims to raise $2,500 to serve approximately 100 people with disabilities with its annual Thanksgiving meal on November 21.

This heartwarming event has become a cherished tradition at VersAbility, where community support makes it possible to serve a delicious Thanksgiving meal to individuals with disabilities who are supported by the organization’s programs. Each contribution directly supports a festive experience that celebrates togetherness, gratitude and community spirit.

In addition to contributions from the community, VersAbility’s annual Thanksgiving meal is made possible through the generous support of clubs in Kiwanis Capital District Division 13, a long-time partner committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Every gift brings VersAbility closer to its goal and ensures that everyone can enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving meal. To donate, please visit versability.org/support/contribute-a-gift and select “Thanksgiving” from the “My Donation is For” drop-down menu.

VersAbility Resources to Host Ribbon Cutting Open House of New Puller Center Location in Gloucester

Posted on June 22, 2024June 24, 2024 by Steph H

VersAbility Resources will host a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of its new Lewis B. Puller Center on Main Street in Gloucester. An open house event will immediately follow a short program to give the community the opportunity to learn more about the services for people with disabilities provided to the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck.

The event will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 6750 Main Street, Suite 100B in Gloucester.

To better serve the communities of the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck, VersAbility Resources relocated its day support services to the new location. The new site is only minutes away from the former Puller Center location and will provide a more welcoming atmosphere for program participants.

VersAbility Resources began operating the Lewis B. Puller Center in 2001 to provide long-term employment, training, and day support services for adults with disabilities.

“We are excited that the new location will allow us to enhance and expand our services for people of all abilities and their families,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, President and CEO of VersAbility. “This significant investment in the future of services marks a new beginning for those we serve throughout the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck communities.”

VersAbility is a leading provider of comprehensive services for people with disabilities of all ages. Headquartered in Hampton, the nonprofit provides early childhood, residential, day support and diverse employment programs throughout Hampton Roads and beyond.

RSVP here.

Ability Am 2024 a Success!

Posted on June 1, 2024June 21, 2024 by Steph H

Thanks to our incredible group of sponsors, players and a supportive community, our signature summer fundraiser – the Ability Am – raised $87,625 in 2024!

The 85 golfers on 21 teams and 14 sponsors made it possible for us to do even more good work to help ALL abilities shine!

A man in golf attire throwing his hands in the air with his club behind him

Wings for All Success in 2024

Posted on April 29, 2024June 19, 2024 by Steph H

VersAbility Resources, The Arc US and Norfolk International Airport co-hosted Wings for All® on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The Wings program is a chance for people with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families to rehearse the airport experience and board an airplane, many for the first time.

The Arc founded Wings for All in 2014 with the goal to alleviate the stress of air travel with practice and to educate airport and airline personnel and TSA on ways to improve the experience for passengers of all ages with autism spectrum disorders and IDD.

The Arc’s Wings for All Lands at Norfolk International Airport

Posted on March 22, 2024June 19, 2024 by Steph H

VersAbility Resources, The Arc US and Norfolk International Airport will co-host Wings for All® on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The Wings program is a chance for people with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families to rehearse the airport experience and board an airplane, many for the first time.

This event is free to families and open to all individuals with autism or IDD, however pre-registration is required here.

WHAT: Wings for All
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 10:30am
WHERE: Norfolk International Airport

Support Inclusion & VersAbility on World Autism Awareness Day

Posted on March 17, 2024June 19, 2024 by Steph H

World Autism Awareness Day held annually on April 2 is one of seven official health specific days sanctioned by the United Nations.

Member states, which include the United States, are encouraged to raise awareness about autism on this day, highlighting the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives. VersAbility Resources operates with a similar mission of making sure people with disability lead full and productive lives of their choosing.

When you donate to VersAbility Resources, you’re contributing to making a better life to those with autism or another disability. If you have a family member or friend with autism, host a Facebook fundraiser on April 2 to support VersAbility Resources.

Autism or autism spectrum disorder refers to a broad range of lifelong conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, according to Autism Speaks, a nonprofit dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism.

If you suspect your child is on the autism spectrum, reach out to VersAbility’s Early Prevention and Intervention for Children (EPIC) program. Free developmental screenings are provided for any child living in Hampton and Newport News under the age of 3.

Blue is the color associated with World Autism Awareness Day. Wearing blue on April 2 symbolizes autism awareness and solidarity with the mission of not simply existing with autism but living life a life without limits.

While World Autism Awareness Day is only one day, appreciating differences, promoting understanding and making the world a more inclusive place is a 24/7/365 endeavor.

Make a Difference Today During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Posted on March 13, 2024June 19, 2024 by Mark H

Are you wearing orange?

That’s the official color of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, which happens every March. By showing off your orange colors, you’re spreading awareness to support the inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of life.

The term developmental disability is an umbrella for a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language or behavior areas. Most of the time, a person is born with a developmental disability, though it can occur in the first three years of a child’s life.

The most common developmental disabilities are autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, Down syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). About 1 in 6 children in the United States has one or more diagnosed developmental disabilities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

By raising awareness of people with disabilities, we promote acceptance. People with a developmental disability are people first. Just like everyone else, they have abilities and accomplishments, likes and dislikes. We can’t cure people of a developmental disability. We can understand their challenges and foster an inclusive environment.

What can you do to raise awareness this month?

Find the orange and your wardrobe and show your colors. No orange? Make an orange ribbon with a safety pin that you can wear daily.
Conduct a disability awareness self-check. When you see someone with a disability, don’t turn the other way. Greet the person just as you would anyone. Make sure you use “people-first” language. People don’t suffer from a disability. They’re people with disabilities.
If you are an employer and have people with disabilities on your staff, highlight their individual abilities on social media or in your company newsletter.
If you own a business and need employees, partner with us at VersAbility Resources. Our team is continually exploring options for new Supported Employment business partners. Employers who hire people with disabilities are eligible to receive the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. Contact Vickie Greatwood at vgreatwood@versability.org for information. If you are unable to hire a person with a disability, promote volunteer opportunities within your organization for people with disabilities.
Share a message of inclusion on your personal and professional social media feeds. If you have a family member or friend, personalize the post with details and photos. Or create a reel. Upload a temporary cover photo or profile picture on Facebook that recognizes Developmental Disabilities Month.
Donate to VersAbility Resources. Any gift of any size promotes the abilities of people with disabilities.

Register for Free Online Support Event for People with Developmental Disabilities

Posted on March 13, 2024June 19, 2024 by Mark H

If you want to learn more about mental health support for people with developmental disabilities, register to attend a free online event from the Individual and Family Support Program (IFSP) from 6-8:15 p.m., on March 21, 2024.

The IFSP Coordinated Regional Council meeting will focus on what to do if you or a loved one has a mental health crisis. Learn how to distinguish between a crisis and a non-crisis event and how to best access services that fit your situation.

V.J. Petillo, Systems Trainer for Region 4 of Regional Education Assessment Crisis Services Habilitation (REACH), will be a guest presenter. REACH team members will be available to answer your questions.

You must register to attend at this link: https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/93c6d5a6-ee5c-40ab-9933-ad97019f1789@620ae5a9-4ec1-4fa0-8641-5d9f386c7309

An EPIC Night of Basketball Courtesy of Chartway Promise Foundation

Posted on February 28, 2024June 19, 2024 by Mark H

It was a night for Love & Basketball on Feb. 22 at Chartway Arena courtesy of the Chartway Promise Foundation.

Chartway Promise Foundation is the charitable arm of Chartway Credit Union.

Earlier this winter, the Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to support VersAbility Resources’ Early Prevention and Intervention for Children program (EPIC), which supports young children with developmental delays and their parents. As part of “Promise Night,” all grantees received basketball tickets to an Old Dominion University men’s game.

One family receiving EPIC support attended the game along with Marissa Canty, Assistant Manager of the EPIC program, and VersAbility Executive Administrator Jennifer Plude. This is the first time the EPIC program has received funding from Chartway Promise Foundation.

EPIC is a family-oriented program for infants and toddlers under the age of 3 who live in Hampton and Newport News. VersAbility offers free screenings that assess a child’s needs. If a disability or delay is found, families and caregivers can receive support and training through tailored therapy programs to help children reach developmental milestones. A VersAbility service coordinator, assigned during the intake process, works closely with the family to create an individualized family service plan for the child.

Phillips Energy Donates Nearly $1,500 to VersAbility Resources from Giving Tuesday Fundraiser

Posted on January 14, 2024March 6, 2024 by Mark H

The community got pumped up and Phillips Energy gave. Literally.

VersAbility Resources is the recipient of $1,424.23 proceeds from a Giving Tuesday fundraiser organized by Phillips Energy.

Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement, is held annually the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, which most recently fell on Nov. 28, 2023. Phillips Energy designated the Hampton nonprofit that supports people with disabilities to lead full and productive lives of their choosing as its designated beneficiary on that day. The energy company, with locations in Gloucester, Mathews and New Kent counties, donated 10% of sales from its public gas station near Gloucester Point to the fundraiser.

All funds will go toward VersAbility’s programs that serve more than 1,500 with disabilities and their families in areas that include early childhood, student services, day support, residential and employment.

“We’re grateful to our new community partner, Phillips Energy, for its outstanding efforts on Giving Tuesday that not only raised money but also awareness about our mission to support people with disabilities,” said Joe Harrow, Chief Development Officer at VersAbility. “All of us at VersAbility appreciate the Phillips Energy family for their thoughtfulness and salute everything they do to improve our shared community.”

Phillips Energy is a Virginia provider of premium heating oil, propane, autogas, on- and off-road diesel, eco-friendly alternate fuels, gasoline and marine fuels, and more.

“It’s always been important to Phillips Energy to support the local organizations in the community,” said Elizabeth McCormick, Vice President of Phillips Energy, a family-run company founded by her grandfather in 1946. “Thank you to everyone who took the time to fuel up on Giving Tuesday at our Gloucester gas station. We’re inspired by all that VersAbility Resources does for people with disabilities. We are proud to support such an important mission.”

Pumpkins & Lots More at Gift Market on Oct. 12, 19, 26 & Nov. 2

Posted on October 10, 2023June 19, 2024 by Mark H

Join VersAbility Resources at the Peninsula Fall Home & Gift Market on The Green at the Marketplace at Tech Center on four consecutive Thursdays this fall — Oct. 12, 19, 26 and Nov. 2, 2023.

Hours for each of the markets are 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Marketplace at Tech Center is located at 12090 Jefferson Ave., in Newport News. Whole Foods is among the many businesses located there.

Explore the diverse range of exhibitors showcasing one-of-a-kind crafts perfect for home décor and gifts. VersAbility will host a pumpkin patch event that will include pumpkins for donations, children’s games, costume contests, candy apples and more.

VersAbility helps ensure people with disabilities enjoy dignified, productive lives of their choosing. All donations for the pumpkins will benefit the nonprofit’s Able Acres Market Garden program, led primarily by adults with disabilities. Individuals in the nonprofit’s Day Support program will be part of the four markets as part of the community engagement aspect of the program.

VersAbility’s 2023 Ability Am Golf Tournament Raises Over $90,000 to Support Employment Programs

Posted on June 5, 2023June 19, 2024 by Mark H

Two teams may have walked away with the top scores, but it was VersAbility Resources that won the 2023 Ability Am Golf Tournament. The Hampton nonprofit raised $91,575 at the annual 18-hole tournament held at Cedar Point Country Club in Suffolk on May 18.

Funds raised support VersAbility’s employment programs, including the innovative Future of Work (FOW) program.

VersAbility’s mission is to support people with disabilities lead full lives of their choosing.

FOW is designed to help youth and adults with disabilities complete certification programs to prepare them for jobs in high-demand career fields. The nonprofit offers training in welding and culinary arts. Support services are in place, including dedicated job coaches onsite to facilitate people with disabilities successfully completing certification/credentialing and apprenticeship programs necessary to expand their career opportunities in high-demand industries.

“People with disabilities face an unemployment rate twice as high as those without a disability,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, President and CEO of VersAbility Resources. “Our employment programs are a critical component that lead to the self-sufficiency so many strive for.”

A man wearing sunglasses and a hat hits a golf ball with his club

VersAbility Resources serves more than 1,700 people with disabilities and their families. In addition to the four employment programs, VersAbility’s programs include early childhood, student services, day support and residential. Its service area includes all of Hampton Roads and the 10 counties on the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck.

A total of 76 golfers participated in the 2023 event, presented by Primis Bank and Wayne MacMasters. Additional major sponsors, among others, were TowneBank, Towne Insurance, Langley Federal Credit Union, Tidewater Orthopaedics.

A foursome from The Lee Group, a premier staffing and executive recruitment firm, and First Advantage Credit Union, took first place.

Four men pose with their golf clubs and smile on a golf course.

“Having so many local businesses support our golf tournament is testament to the generosity in the Hampton Roads community,” said Joe Harrow, Chief Development Officer at VersAbility. “We’re grateful for their contributions and commitment to helping people with disabilities lead fulfilling lives.”

Register for VersAbility Free Family Fun Night on June 23

Posted on June 5, 2023June 19, 2024 by Mark H

Join VersAbility Resources for Family Fun Night, an opportunity for children with disabilities to explore exhibits after hours and enjoy arts and crafts at the Virginia Living Museum.

This free event on Friday, June 23, 2023, is from 5:30 to 8 p.m., and open to people with disabilities ages 0 to 22.

Families can also learn about community resources and chat with other families in a supportive environment. The Virginia Living Museum is at 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., in Newport News.

Tickets are limited and registration is required. Register online HERE.

VersAbility Resources serves more than 1,800 people with disabilities and their families annually with programs in early childhood, student services, residential and employment.

Learn more about Family Fun Night by contacting Keltie Bransford at 757-896-6473 or keltie@versability.org.

Family Fun Night is sponsored and coordinated by VersAbility Resources and is not a Virginia Living Museum event.

VersAbility Raises More Than $76,000 at Signature Fundraiser

Posted on October 23, 2022June 19, 2024 by Mark H

VersAbility Resources raised $76,060 at its 15^th annual gala presented by Old Point National Bank held Sept. 30 in Newport News.

A man and a women smile and poser together at a VersAbility fundraiser

The funds raised support the nonprofit’s mission to empower people with disabilities to lead productive and fulfilling lives.

More than 100 people attended the cruise-themed event held during the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.

A group of people surround a roulette table as they watch the ball spin.

“VersAbility is deeply grateful to all of our generous sponsors who help us create lives of purpose and opportunity for people of all abilities,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, the organization’s President and CEO. “We salute those who braved the remnants of Hurricane Ian to join us in celebration of our mission.”

Unique silent auction items at VersAbility’s signature fundraiser held at the Marriott in City Center included a guitar autographed by Bruce Springsteen, a Los Angeles Lakers jersey autographed by LeBron James, a sterling silver bracelet with white sapphires from Hauser’s Jewelers and a Lilly Pulitzer cooler and stainless steel tumbler from The Silver Box.

A woman wearing formal attire speaks into a microphone from a podium.

The evening included dinner and dessert, live music from the band Revelation, dancing, a silent auction, casino games, and a raffle.

A man wearing a Hawaiian shirt plays a white guitar onstage.

VersAbility’s new Chief Development Officer Joe Harrow joined other leadership, staff, and supporters for the memorable evening.

Four women smile, seated behind a table with papers in front of them.

“I am really excited to be joining VersAbility in my capacity as its Chief Development Officer because I believe so strongly in the mission,” Harrow said. “The people who I met at the office on my first day, as well as the supporters at the Gala, further confirmed for me that I have made the right decision joining this organization.”

VersAbility serves more than 1,800 people and their families with disabilities with programs in early childhood, student services, day support and residential. Five diverse employment programs help people with disabilities find meaningful work.

Category: Event