We’re celebrating the people who bring Fello’s mission to life—the voices speaking up for change, the hands showing up to serve, and the partners working with us. Giving back isn’t just a seasonal tradition at Fello; it’s part of everything we do.
Here’s a look at how our community is creating change and building a more inclusive world, one act of service at a time.
A Community of Doers
At Fello, the people we support are active in creating positive change, demonstrating every day that inclusion strengthens communities when everyone has the chance to contribute. This year, Living Boldly—Fello’s self-advocacy group—hosted its first annual Volunteer Day, where people with disabilities joined in service projects across the region.
But creating positive change isn’t just about volunteering—it also means showing up when and where your community needs you. When disability funding faced cuts earlier this year, Fello advocates traveled to Annapolis to make their voices heard. Speaking from lived experience, their participation in these conversations drives meaningful change that benefits entire communities.
Dominique Palmer, Advocacy Specialist for Fello’s Living Boldly, emphasized the importance of self-advocacy:
“Sometimes people without disabilities try to tell our stories for us. But we need to be the ones to tell our stories about how we experience things as a person with a disability. If we let others tell our stories for us takes away our power.”
Leading Through Service
Fello employees bring the organization’s mission to life both on the job and in the community, using their expertise and passion to advance inclusion and equity in ways that uplift the community and amplify every voice.
Many serve on nonprofit boards or volunteer with organizations aligned with their values. Their commitment reflects a deep understanding that building strong communities requires showing up and applying their skills where they can have the greatest impact.
Catie Comer, Director of Strategic Communications, has served on the board of the Anne Arundel County Literacy Council for nearly five years, where she brings her expertise in storytelling and community engagement to advance literacy access.
“Literacy is the foundation for so much,” says Catie. “It opens doors to opportunity, independence, and connection. When people can read, they can explore new ideas and work toward their goals. They’re not just taking part in the world around them—they’re improving their lives.”
Megan Lyle, Senior Vice President of Administration and General Counsel, channels her passion for equity into her board service with the Anne Arundel County Food Bank.
“Access to healthy, nutritious food is a fundamental human right. It shapes not only our health, but also our ability to learn and grow,” Megan shares. “Growing up, I was deeply involved in food drives and local initiatives that provided meals to people in need, and I’ve seen firsthand how consistent access to good food can change lives.”
Fello’s own board members play a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission and shaping strategies that build more inclusive communities. Their leadership keeps us grounded in our mission while guiding thoughtful growth and embracing new opportunities to strengthen inclusion across every community we serve.
“Serving on Fello’s board is about more than governance—it’s about being part of a movement that’s expanding what inclusion looks like in real life,” says Steve Smollon. “Every decision we make helps open doors for people with disabilities to live more independently and be part of the communities they choose.”
Through the dedication of board members like Steve, Fello can amplify its impact, connect with community partners, and strengthen programs that empower people with disabilities to thrive.
Partners Who Serve
Fello’s work is strengthened by corporate partners who support our mission in different, meaningful ways—through financial contributions, volunteer service, in-kind expertise, and hands-on projects that touch the community.
Our general contracting partner, BGC G&G, has long been a champion for inclusion, donating services and materials, supporting families through Holiday Giving, and even contributing to the water feature at Port Street Commons that celebrates Maryland’s Eastern Shore heritage.
“Over the years, we’ve been proud to partner with Fello because we believe communities are stronger when everyone can be a part of them,” says Ben Harries, owner of BGC G&G. “Our team is proud to contribute to an organization that creates real opportunities for connection and independence in the community.”
CallTrackingMetrics, headquartered in Millersville, MD, brings both time and resources to Fello’s programs. Since 2022, they’ve sponsored 15 children annually through Holiday Giving, with team members volunteering each year to help sort and prepare gifts.
“CallTrackingMetrics supports and volunteers with Fello because we believe inclusion and accessibility strengthens every community, and Fello embodies that ethic,” explains Sean Nidecker, Enterprise Solutions at CallTrackingMetrics. “We get to see that our team is helping to advance opportunities for independence and creativity—values that reflect our own commitment to being community driven and making a positive impact beyond the workplace.”
In addition to time and resources, partners like idfive support Fello through in-kind contributions, helping communicate its mission, expand awareness, and engage the community through marketing, design, and communications expertise. Their work amplifies Fello’s impact, ensuring more people learn about and can access our programs.
Caitlin Currey of idfive shares, “At idfive, we’re drawn to organizations that lead with heart and purpose—and Fello does that in every possible way. Supporting their work through in-kind strategy and creative services allows us to live our own mission to amplify good. Every project we touch with Fello is a reminder that inclusion and belonging aren’t abstract ideas—they’re something we help build together.”
Gratitude in Action
As we enter this season of thanks, we’re grateful for every person who contributes to Fello’s mission of building inclusive, connected communities. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, board service, or partnership, each act of giving back strengthens our community and moves us closer to a world where everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and contribute. Thank you for being part of this movement—for showing up, for contributing your time and talents, and for believing that together we can create communities where everyone belongs.