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Dear Friends,
This month, we reflect on a theme that resonated deeply at our recent annual conference: the challenge of isolation. We heard from parents who poignantly described young adults with disabilities as "the forgotten generation"—those who, after leaving the structured environment of school, often find themselves searching for a place to truly belong.
As we journey through Lent and Holy Week, we see that even our Lord experienced profound isolation. In the Garden of Gethsemane and during His time in the desert, Christ used moments of solitude not as an end, but as a bridge to unite His heart more perfectly with God the Father. For us, this desert of isolation should be an opportunity to feel His proximity and His love closer than ever.
At Porto Charities, we realized a few years ago that supporting inclusive Catholic education and employment—while vital—was not the whole answer. True belonging required us to reach out to the greater community to educate them on the immense gifts and specific needs of individuals with disabilities. We needed everyone to help us build a culture of belonging. In turn, this outreach has sparked community members to partner with us to co-host opportunities for fellowship, but the need is ongoing.
Let us use this Holy Week and Easter season to move away from the margins and closer to one another. I invite you to be very intentional about finding and creating community. As you read through this month’s newsletter, you will find several resources. In short, we want you to know that at Porto Charities and in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, you are seen, known, and loved.
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