Inclusion Matters

JULY 2024

Living her Best Life

“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.

Louanne Abbott, Meghan's mentor for over a decade, plays a crucial role in Meghan's life, overseeing everything from scheduling appointments to ensuring backup support is in place. Louanne's guidance has been instrumental in Meghan's journey towards independence, which began after living with her parents, who split their time as snowbirds in South Carolina.

“It was a little nerve-racking for everyone in the beginning while getting acclimated,” said Michelle Bellemare, Meghan’s Support Broker with Advocates. “But her parents never doubted for a second that she could do this.”

Meghan radiates positivity and warmth, cherished by her friends and family alike. She maintains strong connections with her high school friends and actively engages in community activities through Advocates, where she volunteers weekly, spreading cheer by painting inspirational rocks and baking treats for both people and animals. She and her friends also create hand-crafted greeting cards, which they then send to area nursing homes. 

Despite facing challenges from her disability like significant hearing loss, Meghan has adapted with resilience. She demonstrated courage when she opted for a surgical procedure to help her hearing. Fortunately, the surgery was a success, and the results have greatly improved her ability to communicate, marking a significant milestone in her personal growth. “That was one of her main challenges (communication), and life’s become a lot easier for her because of her renewed ability to communicate with her friends,” Michelle stated.

Meghan's aspirations are grounded in living a healthy and fulfilling life. She enjoys staying active with activities like hiking, crafting, and dancing to the tunes of both mainstream and local bands. Her love for cooking, learned from her mentor and family, shines through when she hosts friends for homecooked meals. “I like having people over because I like hanging out with them and I like to cook!” Meghan told us emphatically. Her culinary skills have developed tremendously over time with the assistance of her support team. Some of her favorite dishes to prepare for her and her friends are meatloaf and scalloped potatoes, goulash, and pizza.

Family remains at the core of Meghan's life, and she eagerly anticipates trips like an upcoming wedding in California with her family. Her parents, Fran and Kevin, are her pillars of support, alongside Louanne, whom Meghan regards with deep affection and respect, akin to a mother figure. “She cares so much about me,” Meghan said. “Louanne is a great mentor.” The feeling is quite mutual, according to Louanne. “She gives my life purpose and makes life fun,” she said. “But it’s more than that…she’s an inspiration to those who meet her.” Louanne then provided us with a story that perfectly highlights this feeling.

One of Meghan’s favorite places to shop is Target, and because she and Louanne (pictured left) are there frequently, the pair have come to know several staff members there. One of the store’s employees in particular gravitated towards Meghan because she herself has a daughter with Down syndrome. When the employee recently learned that Meghan now lives independently, she broke down in tears. Meghan is living proof that nothing is unattainable with the power of self-determination and having the right supports in place. Meghan told us how pivotal Advocates has been in her life, offering support and opportunities for personal growth with every step of the way. Her parents couldn’t agree more.

“Advocates gave Meghan a solid foundation for her to become social and independent,” Fran, said. “Thirty-plus years ago, I never thought it would be possible that she would live independently,” Kevin added. “But when thinking about the support staff like Louanne who have been a godsend, and the education they’ve provided us over the years, I don’t know what we would’ve done without an organization like Advocates.”

The events Advocates holds, her network of friends she’s met within the agency, the camaraderie with Michelle, and the deep rapport she has with Louanne, all enrich Meghan's social life and provide valuable learning experiences.

With the unwavering support from mentors and loved ones, Meghan continues to inspire those around her. With her resilience and determination, vibrant spirit and positive outlook, Meghan is a prime example that anyone can achieve their dreams and live their best life, regardless of circumstance.

Do you have a friend or family member who

would make a great Mentor?

If so, please encourage them to apply on our website.

We look forward to meeting them!

We hope you'll join us for Advocates' Annual Family Picnic at Onondaga Lake Park (Long Branch Park - 3813 Long Branch Rd., Liverpool, NY 13090) on Wednesday, July 10th from 4pm-7pm! People & families receiving service from Advocates are invited to join us for food, fun, music, entertainment and an opportunity to connect with old friends and meet new ones!

Although this event is free to attend, eligible individuals must be enrolled in our FSS Recreation program in order to register.

We hope to see you there!

Independence is at the core of our mission. We would also like to thank all of our employees for helping the people we support to live enriched and independent lives! It is by your dedication that we are able to achieve our mission.

We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable 4th of July!

Student and Service Dog Triumph Together at High School Graduation

At C.W. Baker High School's recent graduation ceremony, the class of 2024 witnessed a heartwarming moment that left a lasting impression for all in attendance.

Graceanne D’Alberto and her loyal service dog, Junco, both dressed in cap and gown, crossed the stage together in a rare and touching display of unity.

Graceanne, who navigated the stage in her wheelchair, was met with thunderous applause from her peers and the audience alike upon receiving her hard-earned diploma. The emotional scene underscored not only the bond between Graceanne and Junco but also the supportive and inclusive environment fostered by the school community. Mark and Bethany D’Alberto, Graceanne’s parents, expressed overwhelming pride and gratitude for the acceptance and encouragement their daughter received throughout her high school journey.

"I never could have fathomed that things would have turned our like this for her," Mark told us. "It's been such a journey, and this last part of her graduating is just an amazing thing. It’s hard to express what this means to us."

The viral video of the graduation moment, with over 50,000 views, has resonated widely, touching hearts and connecting people across communities. With Graceanne's dedication and perseverance, her parents' staunch advocacy for her to live a normal life, and some invaluable support from the family's favorite furry friend, the D'Alberto family is proof that the possibilities are limitless.



For Graceanne and her family, this graduation was not just a culmination of academic achievement but a testament to the power of acceptance and community spirit at her school. Advocates is proud of Graceanne, her parents, Junco, and everyone at C.W. Baker High School for this unforgettable moment and milestone!

Click here to watch Graceanne and Junco cross the stage together!