On Friday, September 21^st, Triangle, Inc. participants and staff were joined by corporate volunteers from State Street Corporation and Eaton Vance to celebrate their annual Spirit Award winners. Mayor Gary Christenson of Malden, State Representative Steven Ultrino and Second Assistant Majority Leader Paul Donato also came to join the celebration and congratulate the winners. Hundreds of people showed up at Lincoln Commons in Malden to enjoy a cookout, lawn games, dancing, and fun. Great weather and even better company made for a memorable afternoon for everyone, and it was the biggest turnout to date!

Spirit Awards are given to hard-working participants who have exhibited leadership, personal growth, and ambition. This year, Triangle was proud to honor seven participants from our day programs and residences who embody the spirit of the organization. The participant winners this year were:

• William Barton: Residential Services, Cornell Road House, Danvers
• Bob Bowman: Residential Services, Lawrence Street House, Malden
• Mark Bromberger: Adult Services, Salem
• Robin Eveleth: Residential Services, Grandview House, Saugus
• Diamond Fulton: Youth Services, Randolph
• Bedzer Louis: Adult Services, Malden — Pearl Street
• Sebastian Parra: Adult Services, Malden — Main Street

Spirit Awards are also awarded to staff members who go above and beyond to serve Triangle’s community.

• Kayla Tobin, Lawrence Street House, Malden: Residential Direct Care Worker of the Year
• Gamelin Bernier, Bancroft Road House, Melrose: Residential Program Manager of the Year
• Nicole Pesce, Malden: Day Services Direct Care Worker of the Year
• Kathleen Larracey, Randolph: Day Services Manager of the Year
• Melani Bingham, Malden: Administrative Professional of the Year

Additionally, the Spirit Awards provide a great opportunity for Triangle to recognize community partners that have provided valuable experiences and expanded the horizons for our participants over the past year. Our relationship with the community is something that drives what we do, and there’s no doubt that without such dedicated partners, Triangle couldn’t thrive.

Our first community partner awardee, Susan Zellen of the Saugus-Everett Elks, has opened countless doors for participants through special events and gatherings with other residential homes. The residents we support look forward to the events at the Elks Lodge throughout the year, and we can see the joy each event brings.

The next awardee was Orlease Flemmings from the Department of Developmental Services. She is a strong advocate for our participants, and continuously demonstrates her commitment by remembering what is important to the people we support. Her warm and welcoming approach leads the residents to look forward to her site visits and cherish the conversations.

Another invaluable partner we recognized this year was Malden Housing Authority (MHA). For the past year, MHA has partnered with Triangle to provide supported employment opportunities for participants at both of our Malden locations. This innovative partnership demonstrates the city’s broad and longstanding commitment to individuals with ability.

Randolph Public Schools, a steadfast partner for over six years, was next to receive an award. Heather Geary, Director of Special Education and Pupil Services for the district, attended the event alongside Brian Cartwright, Michael Meyer, and a class of Randolph students. Since opening our site in Randolph, Triangle has partnered with Randolph Public Schools to provide employment, independent living, and empowerment skills to special education students.

Finally, Triangle recognized Lauren Beckham Falcone of WROR. For the past two years, we have been very fortunate to have Lauren as a host at our annual Celebration fundraising event. Lauren has volunteered to emcee this gathering with a voice that truly reflects the values of the organization. She has done so much to support our events and advocate for individuals with disabilities.

We are grateful for all the incredible people and partners in our community who made the Spirit Awards such a success.

Check out some of our favorite shots from the day!