In 1948, Elizabeth Calabrese had a vision fueled by a mother’s love. She decided that her children, and all children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, deserved a world that saw their value. From that single spark of determination, Laradon was born. Today, women remain a driving force in our mission, carrying Elizabeth's torch forward with grace, strength, and unwavering devotion.
Like Elizabeth Calabrese, so many members of the Laradon community are fierce advocates who ensure our individuals are not just supported, but are truly heard, seen, and cherished. This heart shows up in our community every day, like Peggy, whose 19 years as a Direct Support Professional have filled our Adult Day Program with warmth and joy In Kendra, who leads the Calabrese Youth Center with vision and compassion, and in Lydia, who has opened her home and her heart as a Host Home Provider.
Together, these Laradon leaders make sure that in our halls, no voice is ever silenced, no one is ever left behind.
And while women have long been central to our story, Laradon’s purpose is defined by every person we are honored to serve, support, and champion. The individuals we serve are the backbone of our journey, teaching us every day what it means to be resilient. There is Dolores, our morning ray of sunshine, who makes sure everyone knows they are loved with her famous hugs and a sincere "I love you" to start the day. There is Lauren at the Laradon School, whose warm smile acts as an open door, ensuring every student feels they belong.
We see empowerment in Lilith, who leads by example as she builds a life of independence and deep friendship. And we see courage in Connie, who steps into the workplace every day to prove that a disability is never a boundary to success, only a different path to thriving.
These seven women are more than just examples, they are the living proof that when we empower women, we strengthen our entire community. They prove that a disability does not limiting, it simply highlights a different kind of strength.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day this March 8th, we honor every woman and girl who has ever walked through our doors. Their resilience is the "why" behind everything we do. At Laradon, every woman has a story, and every woman leaves a beautiful, lasting impact.
Please join us in celebrating their journey by watching the video below.
