Step into the dynamic world of Donna, where progress is a resounding anthem. Progress takes commitment and resilience, qualities Donna has embodied all her life.
A devoted full-time mother to three wonderful children, Donna has navigated the complexities of parenthood with grace and courage, while constantly striving to live independently as an individual with IDD (intellectual and developmental disabilities). She has worked so hard over the years to secure a safer, more amenable, and empowering living environment for herself and her family.
Donna’s relationship with CFS spans back to the late 1990s, evolving from residing in various CFS homes to finally achieving her dream of living on her own.
CFS proudly bestowed the CFS Advocate of the Year 2023 award to Donna, who has always been fiercely self-sufficient. She says, “My family and I get help from CFS sometimes for certain things, but I do as much as I can on my own and only get assistance only when I really need it.”
2023 was a big year for Donna. After facing several challenges where she lived, Donna decided to take action eight months ago and secured a safer and better residence for her family. In addition to searching for a new place and moving into a new apartment, Donna got a job! She is now a proud salesperson at a nearby Home Goods store, and is balancing her flourishing career with full-time motherhood.
“Once I settled into my new place, I wanted to get a job. So I got one! I’m now a salesperson and see different people, every day, from different states. We sell everything for the home, but clothing!” She proudly says.
Donna’s commitments extend far beyond her family and her job. Beyond her personal achievements, Donna is a deeply religious person who is very active in her church. Her favorite passage is Psalms 121, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.“
Donna has also been an invaluable member of various CFS programs, contributing her boundless energy and enthusiasm to uplift others. Her pivotal involvement in various CFS programs, from Community Safety & Self-Defense to Magic of Music, is a testament to this energetic spirit and dedication. Recently, Donna also played a big role in creating CFS’ first ever original theme song, “We are Diverse”, inspiring peers with an encouraging voice and joyful presence.
Debra Powers, CFS Inclusion and Advocacy Coordinator, says of Donna, “Throughout 2023, Donna set goals for herself and worked hard to accomplish them. She is a phenomenal mother and caregiver. She also had the dream to work and with the help of the CFS Supportive Employment Team, Donna landed herself a wonderful job that she is proud of. Donna also demonstrated commitment to the Innovative Programs that were held throughout 2023, and always made an effort for others to feel accepted and capable of anything. During the recording of “We are Diverse”, the Magic of Music original song, Donna spent the day reassuring her peers that they could do it! I am so happy to see Donna hold the title of CFS 2023 Advocate of the Year! I am even more excited to watch her growth in the coming years!”
Deyanelin Galvez, who supports Donna, reflects on Donna’s giving spirit in spite of her busy schedule. She explains, “I support Donna through the Individual Support and Services Program, and I can truly say that she is an inspiration. She has raised three beautiful, intelligent children, who have goals and dreams, but she also loves going to church and serving the needy. I admire how she would cook for the homeless in her community and then head out to hand out the food she cooked with her children. Donna fills up a room with her positive energy and will undoubtedly make you smile or laugh when you’re around her. I am so proud of her, and I know that winning Advocate of the Year in 2023 is just one grain of all the beautiful blessings she will receive in her life.”
Donna’s journey, marked by triumph over adversity, showcases her as a role model in the CFS and IDD community. As the 2023 Advocate of the Year, Donna’s story resonates as a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community support. CFS looks forward to witnessing her continued growth and impact in the years to come!
