Countless people serve our communities each day, but are often overlooked. COVID-19 has made us all better understand the significant role employees play in our everyday lives.
We want to give a special shout-out to Keyana Mapson, Wilmington Group Home Manager, who is one of those everyday heroes that embodies what is best about Cape Fear Group Homes. Keyana is a single parent and during these extraordinary times has had to sacrifice time with her daughter. Not only does she work her regular hours but she voluntarily fills in when called upon. She has been a “rock” for the people living at the home and the entire CFGH team. She knows the personalities and the likes and dislikes of all twelve people living in our homes which is quite an accomplishment! She believes in a “creative team approach” with her staff and it shows in their work together.
Ansylene Mitchell, CFGH ICF-IID Program Director says, “Keyana goes above and beyond in her position with our clients and staff. She is my right hand and at times both of my hands! I have worked with this young lady for about 13 years, watching her grow and excel in all areas of her job duties. From me to you, continue to assist, encourage and fight for the rights of the people we support and our staff. Thank You from the bottom of my heart for all you do. It comes with lots of love and appreciation.”
The Thomas Baroch Advocacy Award was created by the Spina Bifida Association (SBA) in 2019 to recognize outstanding advocates on the national and/or state level. The award is presented annually to an individual who has had significant and lasting impact on advocacy for research and other policy issues affecting the lives of people with Spina Bifida. This years’ winners are Will Dickey and Meghan Sorensen.
Tom Baroch was known by many as a man who cared about people with Spina Bifida. He was a long-time advocate who worked hard to make sure that the Spina Bifida community’s voices were heard both in the United States and abroad, especially in Guatemala. Before his sudden death in November 2018, he served on the SBA Board of Directors from 2001 to 2004; worked intensively with the SBA of Colorado and the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus; attended SBA’s first annual Teal on the Hill advocacy event, writing a reflection on his experience; and was working to help establish a Spina Bifida clinic in Las Vegas, Nevada.In 2018, a scholarship fund was established in his memory to provide adults with Spina Bifida the opportunity to attend Teal on the Hill.
