2016 Year in Review

Wow, what a huge year for us! Virginia implemented a waiver change, we opened up two new services (supported employment and community engagement).  We reached over 800 likes on Facebook and over 200 followers on Instagram.  We revamped our website to include swanky head-shots and clear descriptions of who we are as an organization.  

Day Services were on the move this year. Traci, Ashlynn and Tamra arranged experiences across the Greater Richmond area. They volunteered at The Ronald McDonald, went to a Richmond Squirrels game, visited ARC Park (one of our favs!), saw the Universal Soul Circus (and Jake won a dance-off) and walked in the ALLY Rally. We taught loads of classes ranging from advocacy, budgeting, current events, and human rights.  

Therapeutic Consultation added a new Project Manger, Jenny Piazza.  Wendi and Jenny spent 2016 facilitating teams to make life better for people who experience disabilities. They’ve worked on their approach, practiced mindfulness, and grown their reputation in the community.  

Supported Employment spent the first half of 2016 as a theory and in policy.  In October services officially began.  Jess and Ainsley are 1 of 3 teams in Virginia that do the process of Discovery.  They’ve already helped people job hunt in the laundry, party planning, landscaping, and environmental sciences  industry.

As an organization, we helped over 60 people who experience disabilities learn, grow, and advocate for their needs.  We can’t wait to see what 2017 brings!  

Here is a gallery of our  best images of the year—curated from 15 Branches photographers, 477 photographs and 80 social media posts:

Happy 2017! We can’t wait to spend it with you. 

Always, 

Team BOL