Sarah Shao
Caregiver Collective: Crystal Covington Helps Families Move Beyond Survival Mode
For Crystal Covington, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities is both a profession and a personal mission. As an occupational therapist, educator, entrepreneur, and advocate, she has dedicated nearly two decades to helping children and families...
David Sirota Uses Technology to Make the World More Accessible
For tech entrepreneur David Sirota, ROLLIN was inspired by growing up with his father, who has Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), and witnessing the daily challenges faced by families dealing with mobility limitations. He created the...
Royal Touch Wash & Fold: Giving Families More Time Together
A personal loss that redefined priorities For Ramon L. Torres Jr., Royal Touch Wash & Fold began with a deeply personal turning point. “My father passed away in August,” Ramon said. “He worked so hard...
America the Beautiful Festival Brings Patriotism, Culture, and Community Together
Families, veterans, performers, artisans, and community organizations gathered at the America the Beautiful Festival on June 13–14 for a weekend celebrating American heritage, freedom, and cultural diversity. Held at New Century in Port Jervis, NY,...
Beyond Transactions: How Loretta Wolff Combines Real Estate, Service, and Community Impact
For many people, buying or selling a home is one of the most significant and emotional decisions of their lives. For Loretta Wolff, helping clients through that journey is about much more than real estate...
From Art to Cake: How Clarissa Valdez Built Sweet Party Cakes Through Creativity and Resilience
Finding purpose through baking Valdez has been baking for more than 12 years. Growing up in a large Dominican family, food and celebrations were always an important part of life which influenced her decision to...
Finding Inclusion Through Understanding: Brett Anthony’s Journey with Autism and Advocacy
Growing up with autism For Brett Anthony, autism has never been something that defines his limits. Instead, it has shaped a life centered on inclusion, understanding, and helping others feel seen. Brett was diagnosed with...
Finding a Child’s Voice: Speech Pathologist Erika Abdelaziz-Oum on Communication, Family, and Support
For many parents, questions about speech and communication can bring uncertainty and worry. Is my child developing normally? Should I be concerned? Where do I go for help? For Erika Abdelaziz-Oum, a bilingual speech-language pathologist,...
Designing Spaces with Heart: Marely Fernandez Builds Homes and Community Through Vivienda Collective
A journey across cultures For Marely Fernandez, home has always carried different meanings. Born in Puerto Rico to parents from the Dominican Republic, her journey across countries and cultures eventually brought her to New York...
Beyond the Courtroom: Attorney Jason R. Ohliger on Justice, Compassion, and Community Impact
For more than two decades, Jason R. Ohliger has built a reputation as a dedicated trial lawyer serving clients across Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. His practice focuses on serious injury and wrongful death...
Planning for the Future: Ayobami Olusa Supports Special Needs Families
Ayobami Akinyemi Olusa is a registered nurse, mother of three, mentor, and longtime business owner. But more than 20 years ago, her life changed when her middle child was diagnosed with autism. “My name is...
From Personal Loss to Purpose: Tierra Oliver Supports Youth Through Fatherless Yet Fabulous
Growing up without a father figure can leave emotional wounds that follow a person for years. For many young people, those experiences can create feelings of loneliness, rejection, and uncertainty about their own worth. For...