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Community Options Raises Nearly $1 Million at We the People Gala

October 24, 2025

Robert Stack, President and Chief Executive Officer of Community Options, addresses attendees at the organization’s We the People Gala on October 21, 2025, at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.
Robert Stack, President and Chief Executive Officer of Community Options, addresses attendees at the organization’s We the People Gala on October 21, 2025, at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. — Community Options, a leading national nonprofit supporting people with disabilities, proudly hosted it’s We the People Gala at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. The elegant event drew more than 300 guests from across the country to celebrate inclusion, independence and opportunity for people with disabilities, raising nearly one million dollars.

The evening’s theme, A Decade of Impact and Inclusion in Maryland, celebrated ten years of progress in advancing opportunities for people with disabilities and underscored how proceeds from the event will directly enhance disability supports and services across Maryland.

One of the night’s highlights was the presentation of the Betty Pendler Awards, an exclusive Community Options recognition, honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing disability inclusion. This year’s honorees were Mark Berkowsky, Jonathan Will, and the late John Hager, each recognized for their leadership, generosity and steadfast commitment to empowering people with disabilities.

“The We the People Gala was an unforgettable celebration of compassion and community,” said Robert Stack, President and CEO of Community Options. “From the moving performances to the generosity of our honorees and guests, the evening reflected our shared belief that every person deserves the opportunity to live and work with dignity.”

The National Building Museum provided a stunning backdrop for an evening that blended artistry, advocacy, and celebration. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Community Options’ efforts to promote accessible housing, meaningful employment, and full community inclusion for individuals with disabilities across the United States.

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About Community Options, Inc.:
For over 35 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment support for people with disabilities – supporting thousands of people from over 60 offices across 12 states. Community Options provides advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities because all people – regardless of ability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination. For more information, please visit our website: www.comop.org and follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram and X.

The Washington Symphonic Brass performing at Community Options' We the People Gala on October 21, 2025 at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC.
The Washington Symphonic Brass performing at Community Options' We the People Gala on October 21, 2025 at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC.
The Washington Symphonic Brass performing at Community Options’ We the People Gala on October 21, 2025 at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC.