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By Amy Falkofske
For many years, Didlake Foundation has been helping those with disabilities in Prince William County live productive and fulfilling lives. To do that, they rely on the support of the community. One of the ways Didlake raises much needed funds is through its annual gala. This year the theme is “Possibility Unfold Layer by Layer.”
This year’s gala theme, ‘Possibility Unfolds Layer by Layer,’ reflects a simple truth: meaningful opportunity doesn’t happen all at once. For individuals with disabilities, possibility is created through many interconnected layers of support that build upon one another over time. Families, caregivers, employers, educators, neighbors, and community partners all play an essential role in helping each person thrive. “Every layer strengthens the next,” said Kelsey DeWispelaere, Executive Director of Didlake Foundation
Dr. Pamela Moody
The Nov. 7 gala will honor Dr. Pamela J. Moody, a Didlake board member who will be awarded the Didlake Foundation Community Leadership Award, “recognizing her outstanding dedication, visionary leadership, and lasting contributions to the Prince William County community.”
“Dr. Moody embodies the very spirit of community leadership,” said DeWispelaere. “Her commitment to empowering others, strengthening collaboration, and advancing equity continues to shape lives and build a stronger, more inclusive community.”
There has also been a fund created in Dr. Moody’s honor to help those served by Didlake, their families, and the greater disabilities community.
“The Pamela J. Moody Fund was created in honor of Dr. Pamela J. Moody to celebrate her lifelong commitment to advocacy, education, and inclusion, and to carry that legacy forward for generations to come. Established as a Community Impact Fund of the Didlake Foundation, it provides flexible resources to invest where they can make the greatest difference. The fund reflects Dr. Moody’s belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and recognizes that lasting change happens when we invest not only in people with disabilities, but also in the families, caregivers, community partners, and innovative solutions that help make inclusion possible,” said DeWispelaere.
Lisa Duvall
Lisa Duvall, a Didlake success story, will be in attendance at the gala. Duvall was struggling with employment during the pandemic due to seizures, when she was first introduced to Didlake’s services through someone on her bus route. She eventually decided to seek help from Didlake herself and found work with TSA. She has now worked her way up to management.
The gala will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Magnoliya Grand Manor, 7001 Infantry Ridge Road, Manassas. A single ticket is $250. The price to sponsor a table is $2,500. Dress is elegant attire, black tie optional. To purchase a ticket, go to bit.ly/DFgala26.
Amy Falkofske is a contributing writer for Prince William Living.
