Starbridge honors “Community Champion Award” recipients Jane Gabriele, Maria Rodriguez, and Greater Rochester Parent Leadership Training Institute
Rochester, NY – Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Starbridge honored local community members Jane Gabriele, Maria Rodriguez, and Greater Rochester Parent Leadership Training Institute as “Community Champions” at its Cause for Celebration fundraising event October 16th at Comedy @ the Carlson, 7pm.
Starbridge’s Community Champion Awards honor individuals and organizations creating positive change in the lives of people with disabilities in the Finger Lakes region. These annual awards are presented to those who embody Starbridge’s values of advocacy, inclusion, innovation, and respect. Champions show leadership and courage in making a difference in their communities. Together in partnership, Community Champions work to transform communities to include everyone – all abilities, races, ethnicities, gender identities, national origin, and other identity groups.
“We want to extend our deepest appreciation to our remarkable Community Champions. Your commitment to fostering inclusivity and sparking positive change within our community has been nothing short of extraordinary. At Starbridge, we are proud to honor and celebrate your significant contributions. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact!”— Nikisha Ridgeway, President & CEO of Starbridge
Starbridge serves over 14,400 families annually and partners with individuals who have disabilities and their families to achieve success in education, employment, and transitional services. Starbridge also provides services through its Parent Training & Information Center (PTIC) which serves 55 counties in New York State and Western New York Independent Parent Advocacy Network (WNYIPAN) serving 11 counties.
“I am blessed to have the privilege of standing with families as they navigate the special education systems. Their amazing commitment to meeting their children's needs with passion and love fills me with awe. For me, this award is simply honoring the fact that I honor and respect them, the true champions.”— Jane Gabriele
“I am very honored to have the opportunity to teach individuals job skills and how to become their own selves in a worksite setting. I appreciate the nomination and am overjoyed to be recognized for my role in helping individuals reach their potential and gain skills they will use in future employment.”— Maria Rodriguez
“As community champions, our commitment to servant leadership is reflected in our dedication to empowering families to reach their fullest potential and lead fulfilling lives.” — Luva K. Alvarez, Greater Rochester PLTI Interim Director, Greater Rochester Parent Leadership Training Institute
About Starbridge
Starbridge is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization serving 14,400 individuals across the Finger Lakes region. Its mission is to partner with people who have disabilities, their families, and others who support them, to achieve success in education, employment, and healthy living. With a vision that every person leads a fulfilling life, we work together to transform communities to include everyone. Visit www.starbridgeinc.org for more information.