Future Pilots Take Flight at a Drone Camp Hosted at VersAbility

This summer, VersAbility Resources and VersAbility TECH welcomed young learners for an exciting four-day Drone Camp presented by eAviation & Drone Academy, where curiosity, technology, and hands-on learning came together to inspire the next generation of innovators.

Throughout the week, participants explored the fundamentals of aviation and drone flight while developing real-world STEM skills in a fun, engaging environment. Campers learned how drones are used in everyday industries, practiced flying through interactive missions and challenges, and gained a deeper understanding of the technology shaping the future of transportation, business, and public safety. The camp was designed for hands-on learners, encouraging problem-solving, teamwork, and confidence with every flight.

Supporting experiences like Drone Camp reflect VersAbility’s commitment to helping create opportunities that help individuals discover new interests, build practical skills, and explore exciting career pathways. By introducing participants to emerging technologies at an early age, we’re helping spark curiosity that can grow into lifelong learning and future careers.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this incredible week of learning and discovery.

We invite you to browse the photo gallery below to see some of the highlights from Drone Camp in action!

A Night Built on Gratitude — and One Surprise No One Saw Coming

The invitation promised an evening of appreciation. What guests got was something more.

VersAbility appreciates the donors, community partners, and friends whose generosity and belief in their mission make it possible for people with disabilities to live, work, and thrive every day. What unfolded was an evening filled with gratitude, celebration, meaningful connections, and one unforgettable surprise.

We believe it’s important to pause and celebrate the people who make our mission possible. Partners in Purpose wasn’t about asking for support — it was about expressing our sincere gratitude to those who continue to stand beside us and invest in our mission.

Every person in the room represented a story of generosity, compassion, and partnership. Whether through financial support, advocacy, or leadership, our donors and community partners help open doors and minds to opportunity for over 1,500 individuals and families each year and we are deeply grateful for the trust they place in our mission.

What followed was an evening of recognition, tribute, and — in its most memorable moment — genuine surprise.

Ability Angels: A Circle of Commitment

Among the evening’s highlights was the recognition of VersAbility’s Ability Angels, a distinguished group of major donors who have pledged $10,000 or more in support of the organization’s employment, residential, early childhood, and day support programs.

Eleven returning Ability Angels were celebrated for their continued commitment, and two new members were welcomed into the community: Shelley Smith and Glenhouse Properties.

We are incredibly grateful to each of our Ability Angels. Collectively, these supporters represent something larger than a giving level. They represent a belief — in possibility, in inclusion, and in a future where people of all abilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives.

Advocates Recognized for Impact Beyond the Check

Three women pose together at a VersAbility Resources event, with a purple backdrop and an award in hand.

The evening also honored two recipients of VersAbility’s Ability Advocate Award: Wayne MacMasters and Alexis Swann.

Both were recognized for contributions that go well beyond financial support — for the leadership, partnership, and sustained advocacy they have brought to the VersAbility community. Their recognition underscored a truth the organization returns to often: lasting impact requires people willing to invest their time, talent, and voice alongside their resources.

Twenty Years, One Surprise

Then came the moment no one had planned for — except the people who had been quietly planning it for weeks.

As the evening’s program drew toward a close, guests turned their attention to President and CEO Kasia Grzelkowski, who believed she was simply attending the same dinner as everyone else.

She was not.

What unfolded was an emotional tribute to 20 years of leadership at VersAbility — two decades during which Grzelkowski helped guide the organization through significant growth while never losing sight of the individuals at the center of its mission. Today, VersAbility directly supports more than 1,500 people annually through employment, workforce training, residential, early childhood, and community-based programs.

Three women smiling together at a VersAbility Resources event, with a backdrop of balloons in purple, gold, and white.

Family members, her best friend, colleagues, and musical guests all played a part in a celebration that moved quickly from surprise to tears to laughter to standing ovations. Her mother was in the room (also a surprise). So were the memories of two decades of relationships built through work that is, at its core, about people.

It was, by every account, the kind of moment that doesn’t happen at a fundraiser.

The Point of the Evening

As dinner gave way to music, dancing, and conversation among friends old and new, the through-line of the night came into focus.

Partners in Purpose was never about what comes next. It was about honoring what already is — the community of people who show up, year after year, to invest in others.

Behind every program VersAbility runs, every success story it tells, every opportunity it creates, are people who made a choice. The dinner was VersAbility’s way of making sure they knew it.

Bloom Ball 2026 Brought the Magic

On May 22, VersAbility Resources hosted Bloom Ball — a prom-style celebration created especially for individuals in our Day Support Program — and it was everything we hoped it would be and more.

More than just a dance, Bloom Ball gave participants the chance to dress up, shine, and soak in a night built entirely around them — full of confidence, connection, and pure joy.

There was music and dancing, photos and laughter, and so many shared moments between friends, participants, and staff that reminded us exactly why this program matters.

Events like Bloom Ball are at the heart of what our Day Support Program is all about — creating space where every individual feels seen, supported, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

This year’s celebration did just that, and then some.

Scroll through the gallery below and relive a few of our favorite moments from this unforgettable evening.

Breaking Down Barriers in Tech Employment Event to Spotlight Inclusive Workforce Pathways in Hampton Roads

Business leaders. Workforce champions. Technologists. Community advocates. Now is the moment to come together.

Leading workforce development and business organizations in Hampton Roads invite the community to Breaking Down Barriers in Tech Employment — a free, regional event on Thursday, March 5 starting at 5 p.m. designed to bring the community together in a call to action focused on expanding access, increasing opportunity and building a more inclusive technology workforce.

The evening, held at Rivers Casino Portsmouth, will feature networking, panel discussion and action-focused dialogue centered on building more inclusive pathways into high-demand tech careers across Hampton Roads.

Registration is free online here.

The event’s signature panel discussion features regional leaders including:

• Shawn Avery, President & CEO, Hampton Roads Workforce Council
• Johnny Garcia, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer, SimIS, Inc.
• Kasia Grzelkowski, President & CEO, VersAbility Resources

The conversation will be moderated by Blair Durham, Co-Founder & CEO of Black BRAND, with Francesca Garcia Moncion, Board Member of the Hispanic Chamber of Coastal Virginia, serving as event emcee.

Panelists plan to explore the evolving tech employment landscape, addressing both the opportunities and systemic barriers that job seekers face. Topics will include alternative credentialing, apprenticeships, military-to-civilian skill translation, inclusive hiring practices and the role of employer partnerships in workforce development.

While careers in technology are frequently perceived as requiring advanced degrees, extensive experience or security clearances, the event will highlight the growing number of accessible entry points into the industry. Attendees will gain practical insight into certifications, training programs and structured support systems that are helping people with disabilities alongside people of all abilities transition into meaningful tech careers.

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

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

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.

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

VersAbility Resources is pleased to announce that Tidal Wave Auto Spa named it a recipient of its 17th 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

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

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.

Thanksgiving 2024 at VersAbility Resources

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.

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

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.

“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 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

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!

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!

Wings for All Success in 2024

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.”