2024 Spotlights – Advocates

December 2024: Kevin Mulder

Date: December 1, 2024

World renowned artist, Andy Warhol, once said, “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” Kevin Mulder, 34, has admired Warhol’s illustrations and overall body of work for many years. Coincidently, it is Kevin who illustrates just how true this quotation of Warhol’s is.

November 2024: Jared Cullen

Date: November 1, 2024

There are few substitutes for the love, affection, and steadfast support of one’s parents. From the moment Christine Cullen adopted her son, Jared, she recognized the strength of the bond they would share forever. For all of Jared’s 18 years, she has poured her heart into nurturing him, helping him navigate life’s challenges while celebrating notable milestones in the process. With each of Jared’s successes and the bright future he h...

October 2024: Jennifer Romanow

Date: October 1, 2024

Living with a disability takes courage and can be difficult in its own right. For 54 years, Jennifer Romanow has valiantly navigated the complexities of living not only with her disability, but also the other challenges that accompany it. Jennifer’s disability is connected to some medical issues that have lingered throughout her life. Adding to these challenges is the fact that she was bullied for years – only adding to the anxiety a...

September 2024: Elaine Sartwell

Date: September 1, 2024

Self-help author, Napoleon Hill, is quoted as saying “Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” For years, Elaine Sartwell has been sowing seeds to benefit others, and the fruits of her labors have been evident for all to see through the growth of the people she’s advocated for. She has worked for Advocates since 2018 and, in that time, has made a profound impact, routin...

August 2024: Robert White

Date: August 1, 2024

Imagine for a moment that you have an inability to express yourself, or that people have a difficult time understanding you because communication isn’t your strong suit. What would life look like if the communication gap was so large that you rarely made your own decisions? How frustrating would it be if you weren’t able to live the life you wanted, mostly because of an inability to voice your wants, needs, feelings, and aspirations?...

July 2024: Meghan Buckley

Date: July 1, 2024

“Meghan is living her best life,” often says Kevin Buckley when he pridefully speaks about his daughter, Meghan. At 36 years old, Meghan embodies a spirit of independence and joy that resonates through her vibrant personality and active lifestyle. For the past eight years, Meghan has been living independently, a testament to her determination and the support she receives from Advocates’ mentors and her family.

June 2024: Katie Love

Date: June 1, 2024

Katie Love, 23, has faced significant physical challenges all her life due to her diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Her naturally low muscle tone and balance and coordination issues have presented obstacles in her everyday life. In fact, she required a significant surgical procedure in order to support her with walking. However, Katie is demonstrating that her drive and determination are enough to conquer any challenge life throws at her.

May 2024: Bobby Pangborn

Date: May 1, 2024

“The quietest people in the room often have the loudest minds.” This quote emphasizes the importance of not underestimating individuals based solely on their level of vocal expression, as quietness can sometimes mask inner depths of intelligence and wisdom. Bobby Pangborn epitomizes the essence of this quote, and though he may not always be the most vocal presence, his actions speak volumes about the depth of his characte...

April 2024: David Tait

Date: April 1, 2024

If you’re fortunate to spend any amount of time with David Tait, you wouldn’t think that he’s just embarked upon his 61st birthday. With the constant support of his family and his team at Advocates, David told us that his very active lifestyle has led to an overall high quality of life. Though there are several key people who play instrumental roles in David’s success, there are just as many achievements that were dependent on his ow...

March 2024: Kristy Rinaldo

Date: March 1, 2024

In the midst of the daily grind, Kristy Rinaldo emerges as a modern-day Superwoman by seamlessly juggling a fulfilling yet challenging life with exceptional strength and resilience that set her apart from most people. The role of a Mentor – though often described as an incredibly rewarding position – is at times a demanding one. On top of being a full-time Mentor with Advocates, Kristy performs many of these same duties and responsib...

February 2024: Scott Floyd

Date: February 1, 2024

The 14-year story of Scott Floyd and his Mentor, Mark McKeon, stands as a testament to the transformative power of guidance and resilience. Scott’s journey, marked by challenges and aspirations, meshes with Mark’s unwavering support, wisdom, and years of both personal and professional experience. Together, they exemplify the profound impact a Mentor can have on a person’s life, and in turn, the unique impact that person can hav...

January 2024: Greer Gavan

Date: January 1, 2024

Meet Greer Gavan, a remarkable individual whose infectious laughter and positive spirit light up any room she enters. Despite facing her share of challenges, Greer has forged a path of resilience, determination, and self-discovery that serves as an inspiration to all who know her. Greer has accomplished many things in her 53 years of life and has much to be thankful for. One thing that’s been surprisingly missing from her life, howev...