31st Annual

CLASS Community Heroes Awards Dinner

We are so grateful to our Community Heroes, Sponsors, Board Members, Attendees, and Donors for your part in making the 31st Annual Community Heroes Awards Dinner another successful event. It is through the work each of you do in supporting organizations and individuals who are advocating, that we can continue to foster inclusivity in Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities. A special thank you to our emcee, Andrew Stockey, who missed the Penguins game to continue his tradition of introducing and celebrating the incredible community heroes of Pittsburgh.

Image Description: Winners of the Community Heroes Award (left to right): Sloane Davidson, CEO and Founder of Hello Neighbor; Guy Caruso; Connie Feda, Founder of Cookie Cookie Ice Cream; Christine Koebley, Board Chair of Global Links; Kareliz Ramos Aponte, Program Manager, Global Links

This year's Community Heroes included two individuals who have strived to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities and two organizations who have fostered inclusive communities, connecting Pittsburgh internationally.

Image Description: Norma Liebenguth, John Liebenguth, David Zak, and Shannon McCarty

Image Description: Two awardees exploring the silent auction table.

Guy Caruso, a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities, has dedicated his career to promoting inclusion, empowerment, and quality of life through his work in education, research, and advocacy. His extensive experience and expertise have had a significant impact on the field of disability services both nationally and internationally.

Connie Feda is a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for inclusion. Driven by her passion for creating opportunities for all, Connie has founded businesses that celebrate diversity and provide meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities. From her successful doll company, Dolls for Down, to her innovative ice cream shop, Cookie Cookie Ice Cream, Connie’s entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire and empower.

Global Links is dedicated to improving health worldwide. Since 1989, they have been collecting and distributing surplus medical supplies to support health programs in communities with need, both locally and international. 

Hello Neighbor is dedicated to supporting newly arrived refugee and immigrant families. Since their founding in 2017, they have provided essential services and resources to thousands of individuals from around the world, helping them to rebuild their lives and thrive in their new communities.  

CLASS Needs You!

Image Description: Colleen and John celebrating DSP Appreciation Week.

As we reflect on the past year, we're filled with gratitude for the unwavering support we have received from the community. Whether through attending events, making donations, or volunteering your time, you have empowered us to continue providing essential support services, creating inclusive opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging for people with disabilities as they thrive in their communities of choice.

However, we still face many challenges.

CLASS and other community organizations are working tirelessly to maintain high-quality care but face significant challenges.

• Caregiver Crisis – Facing a storm of understaffing, low wages, and burnout
• Funding Shortfalls – Low reimbursement rates can leave gaps in services which must be filled
• Accessibility Barriers – Many homes and public spaces in Pittsburgh are not designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. We must continue to advocate for change and find innovative solutions to create a more inclusive and accessible community
• A Growing Need - Our community is aging. Whether it is someone with a disability who is aging or someone who is aging into disability, there’s a growing desire to remain in their homes and in their communities.

Your support is crucial.

To continue providing high-quality services, we must bridge the funding gap. Every dollar you donate helps us. The cost of in-home services is $27.87 per hour but is only reimbursed at $20.66. Your donation of $15.00 can help cover the gap for 2 hours of support for an individual with a disability or an older adult. Your donations fill the gaps to quality services for people with disabilities, including:

• Paying our dedicated caregivers - Ensuring they receive fair wages for their compassionate care.
• Funding essential equipment and supplies - Providing the tools our clients need to thrive at home.
• Exploring innovative solutions - Like Environmental Home Modifications, to make homes more accessible and safe

Please consider a generous gift today.

Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to age with dignity and independence.

PS. Please consider making a recurring gift to provide consistent and long-term support.

If you would rather call in your donation please use the phone numbers below:

412-683-7100 or 1-888-954-2424 extension 2158.

Join us in building a more inclusive world for people with disabilities.

This year the International Day of Persons with Disabilities shares the same date as Giving Tuesday. This presents a unique opportunity to shine a light on disability rights. Let us create a powerful movement promoting inclusion, accessibility, and equity for all.

CLASS is dedicated to creating a community where each belongs. We empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential by providing essential services, advocating for disability rights, and fostering a sense of belonging.

Your support can make a real difference:

• Donate: Every dollar helps us provide vital services, such as assistive technology, job training, and transportation.
• Volunteer: Share your time and talents to support our programs and events.
• Advocate: Spread awareness about disability rights and advocate for inclusive policies.
• Share Your Story: Share your experiences with disability and inspire others.

Your generosity will empower individuals with disabilities and

Create a Community Where Each Belongs.

Based on the collected data, CLASS purchased and installed a variety of smart and environmental solutions, carefully tailored to meet the specific needs of each participant. For example, individuals with mobility challenges require different modifications than those with cognitive disability or memory challenges. This individualized approach empowers individuals to live more independently and comfortably in their homes.

CLASS considers the ability to tailor solutions to each individual’s needs a major achievement. By understanding and addressing specific challenges, the organization is making a significant impact on the lives of people with disabilities. 

Through collaboration with the University’s of Pittsburgh, and through the generous funding of the Fred and Shirley Jordan Foundation, CLASS has been able to further development, research, and education within the filed of environmental assistive technology.  By sharing knowledge and best practices, the goal is to promote greater independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.  

412 Ability Tech x CLASS