Lifehouse Celebrates Compassion, Achievement, and Community at the 2026 Annual Awards Banquet
On October 9, 2026, Lifehouse brought together staff, families, community partners, volunteers, and the people we support for our Annual Awards Banquet, an inspiring evening dedicated to recognizing the individuals whose compassion, dedication, and generosity make our community so special.
The celebration honored the achievements of the people we support, recognized the outstanding contributions of our staff, and celebrated the community partnerships that help Lifehouse advance its mission of providing lifetime compassionate support in an atmosphere of respect, inspiration, and purpose.
Celebrating the People Who Make Lifehouse Extraordinary
A highlight of the evening was recognizing six Outstanding Staff Award recipients: Rachelle Germaine, LaShawn Johnson, Jennifer Mabilog, Micheline Michel, Yannick Rohmer, and Decola Wright. Selected by their peers, these team members exemplify the compassion, professionalism, and dedication that help the people we support live full lives with dignity and greater independence.
Lifehouse also celebrated employees marking five, 10, 15, and 20 years of service. Special recognition was given to Carol Loughlin for her remarkable 33 years with Lifehouse and the lasting impact she has made on generations of people supported by the organization.
The evening also celebrated two individuals supported by Lifehouse with Individual Achievement Awards. Dillon Scheer was recognized for his progress in self-advocacy, personal responsibility, and independence. Maria Eymann was honored for her inspiring journey toward greater independence, including moving into her own apartment, managing her finances, and building confidence through positive lifestyle changes. Their achievements reflect the importance of individualized support and the opportunities that help people pursue their goals.
Honoring Extraordinary Leadership and Dedication
This year's banquet held special significance as Lifehouse celebrated two remarkable leaders whose contributions have helped shape the organization.
After 35 years of service, President & CEO Nancy Dow Moody received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her extraordinary leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to Lifehouse. Her legacy is reflected in the organization's strength today and the countless lives she has touched throughout her career.
The evening also introduced the Heart of Lifehouse Award, presented to Chief Development Officer Ann Elias in recognition of her 11 years of dedicated service. Ann has been instrumental in building donor relationships, leading successful fundraising campaigns, and helping bring the Home for Life capital campaign to completion. Her personal connection to Lifehouse, where her son Peter has received services since 2000, has made her commitment to the organization's mission especially meaningful.
In another lasting tribute, the Open Arms Award was renamed the Nancy Dow Moody Open Arms Award in honor of Nancy's 35 years of leadership and her welcoming spirit. The inaugural award was presented to Tony Bonviso and Fiorello's Gelato, recognizing eight years of generosity and partnership with Lifehouse's Great Chefs & Wineries event.
Recognizing Our Community Partners
Lifehouse's work would not be possible without the generosity and commitment of its community. This year's honorees included:
Volunteer of the Year: Nancy Riess, for her continued service and dedication to Lifehouse since joining the organization in 2000.
Winery of the Year: Merry Edwards Winery, recognized for 14 years of generous participation in Great Chefs & Wineries.
Restaurant of the Year: Il Davide, led by David Haydon, in recognition of its remarkable participation in Great Chefs & Wineries 26 times.
Pat Kendall Spirit of Lifehouse Award: Sam Kornhauser, for 25 years of steadfast support and generosity.
Extraordinary Individual Service Award: Dr. Paul Subar, for his compassionate dental care and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Charles L. Martin Award: Heidi Krahling, honored for 36 years of friendship, generosity, and service as the beloved culinary host of Great Chefs & Wineries.
Employer of the Year: Bruce Ultsch and Marin Subaru, recognized for creating an inclusive employment opportunity for Gavin Hopper and welcoming him as a valued member of their team.
These honorees demonstrate how meaningful relationships, community involvement, and a shared commitment to inclusion can make a lasting difference.
Thank You for Being Part of the Lifehouse Community
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, Board of Directors, staff, families, volunteers, and community partners for making this special evening possible. Your generosity and continued belief in our mission help Lifehouse provide meaningful support and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The 2026 Annual Awards Banquet was a celebration of achievement, but it was also a reminder of what we can accomplish together.
