NFL Super Bowl Champion Kurt Warner Speaks about the Importance of Inclusion at Gatepath’s Power of Possibilities Event
Warner shares his inspiring story about being a parent of a child with special needs
Burlingame, CA — Two-time NFL Super Bowl MVP and NFL Hall of Fame inductee Kurt Warner was the guest speaker at Gatepath’s 11th Annual Power of Possibilities event on March 21, 2019. As the parent of a child who is blind and has developmental disabilities, Warner has a personal connection to Gatepath’s mission of empowering people with special needs to achieve their full potential. “It was very inspirational to hear Kurt Warner speak at this year’s event,” said Gatepath CEO Bryan Neider. “Kurt had a remarkable NFL career, but his dedication to the community is even more impressive.”
In a conversation moderated by Emmy award-winning journalist Nancy O’Dell, Warner talked about how his son Zack shaped his perspective on life. “He showed me on a daily basis that when you allow someone with special needs to spread their wings, you’ll be amazed at the possibilities. You’ll be amazed by what they accomplish.”
Warner and his wife Brenda founded Treasure House, a supportive living community for young adults that focuses on independence, respect, and community integration. Like Gatepath, they help individuals of all abilities thrive and reach for their dreams. Warner emphasized that everyone can make a positive impact. “What I’ve realized over time is that it doesn’t take much to really impact people. Regardless of our circumstances, we’ve all been given a platform to do something for others. For me, it all starts with including individuals with disabilities in the things we do.”
O’Dell also shared her personal connection to Gatepath’s mission and described her passion for inclusion of those with developmental disabilities. “Growing up, my best buddy was my Aunt Ellen, who was born with Down syndrome,” O’Dell said. “I can remember watching her wanting so badly to be included in certain high school activities like band and cheerleading. So, I applaud organizations like Gatepath because they help provide opportunities for everyone.”
Gatepath presented its annual Neal Poppin Award to Mitzi Zwierlein, who’s been a dedicated employee of McDonald’s for 41 years. The award is named in memory of a man who was in Gatepath’s employment program and whose determination, spirit, and enthusiasm transcended any limitations he faced. “We are honored to recognize Mitzi as this year’s Neal Poppin Award winner,” said Neider. “She’s an amazing woman whose inspiring work ethic and positive attitude have earned her the respect and love of her colleagues and customers. She radiates joy in everything she does and sets a wonderful example for others.”
The 2019 Power of Possibilities event was made possible by title sponsor, Carole Middleton, and the following platinum sponsors: Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy, Gatepath Auxiliary, and Sutter Health, Mills-Peninsula Medical Center. Other corporate sponsors included Arborwell, Bailard, Barulich Dugoni & Suttmann Law Group, Inc., Heffernan Insurance Brokers, SC Properties, D’Elia Construction Inc., Electronic Arts, GoPro, Graybird Foundation, Norman S. Wright Mechanical Equipment, Oracle, and Wells Fargo.
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ABOUT GATEPATH
Gatepath has been a cornerstone of our community for 100 years, providing support services to individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our mission is to empower people with special needs to achieve their full potential through innovative, inclusive programs, and community partnerships. With educational, therapeutic, vocational, and family support services, we provide support to an individual throughout his or her lifetime. We collaborate with businesses, third-party providers, local nonprofits, and various other organizations to bring the highest quality services to the children, youth, and adults in our programs. Together, we are creating a world where people of all abilities are fully accepted, respected, and included in all aspects of life – in the classroom, in the workplace, and in our communities.
For more information, visit Gatepath.org.
Contact: Julia Ballantyne, Gatepath
Cell: 916-390-4671
jballantyne@gatepath.org
Burlingame, CA — Two-time NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion Kurt Warner will be the guest speaker at Gatepath’s 11th Annual Power of Possibilities event on March 21, 2019 at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront in Burlingame, CA.
While Warner’s football narrative reads like a rags-to-riches Hollywood script, it is the story of a man filled with dignity and class that captured the imagination of sports fans and so many others worldwide. During his 12-year career, Warner continually beat the odds to quarterback the St. Louis Rams and the Arizona Cardinals to the Super Bowl and etched his name in the NFL record books along the way.
Warner’s football success is truly impressive. But his gridiron accomplishments pale in comparison to his dedication to the community. Warner believes that all people, regardless of ability, have a purpose and calling in life, and that everyone can participate in meaningful and challenging activities, establish personal relationships, and contribute to society when provided with the appropriate support and opportunities.
Inspired by their son Zachary, who is blind and has developmental disabilities, Kurt and his wife Brenda founded Treasure House, a supportive living community for young adults, focused on independence, respect, and community integration. Their vision for the future is to replicate the model and help individuals with intellectual disabilities realize their full potential. “People are going to forget that I won a Super Bowl, but they’re never going to forget the kind of impact you had on them personally,” said Warner in an interview with CBS Evening News.
Emmy Award-winning journalist Nancy O’Dell will join Warner onstage as moderator of the Power of Possibilities conversation about their personal connection to the intellectual and developmental disabilities community and the importance of advocating for inclusion in society. A proven force in all areas of her career as a host, author, producer, and entrepreneur, O’Dell is the co-host of Entertainment Tonight, contributes to CBS This Morning, and is the go-to anchor for live TV specials.
O’Dell is excited to join the Power of Possibilities event. She is passionate about inclusion and respect for all people, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Growing up, my best buddy was my Aunt Ellen, who was born with Down syndrome,” said O’Dell in an interview with Ability magazine. “Because of my memories of her, to this day, she remains my inspiration for promoting inclusion for individuals of all abilities.”
Tickets for Gatepath’s Power of Possibilities event will be available starting February 1, 2019 at Gatepath.org/POP-2019.
The 2019 Power of Possibilities event is being made possible by title sponsor, Carole Middleton, and the following platinum corporate sponsors: Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy, Gatepath Auxiliary, and Sutter Health, Mills-Peninsula Medical Center. Other corporate sponsors included Bailard, Barulich Dugoni Law Group, Inc., Janice Berthold, Heffernan Insurance Brokers, D’Elia Construction Inc., Electronic Arts, Graybird Foundation, Norman S. Wright Mechanical Equipment, Oracle, and Lisa and Kevin Cullinane, SC Properties.
For more information about becoming a sponsor or benefactor of the Power of Possibilities, CLICK HERE.
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About the Power of Possibilities
Gatepath’s Power of Possibilities event celebrates and supports the achievements of those with developmental disabilities in our community and is perfect for anyone who wants to create a world where people of all abilities are accepted, respected, and included. The Power of Possibilities is known for its powerful keynote speakers. Last year, actor Patrick Dempsey talked about how growing up with a learning disability shaped his perspective on life and helped him become a successful actor. Award-winning actor Colin Farrell, Glee actress Lauren Potter, former San Francisco 49er quarterback Steve Young, and actress and author Holly Robinson-Peete were also previous keynote speakers. Attendees of this event call the Power of Possibilities “magical,” “heartwarming,” and “empowering.” Proceeds benefit Gatepath – the largest nonprofit in the Bay Area supporting individuals with developmental disabilities to achieve their full potential.
About Gatepath
Gatepath has been a cornerstone of our community for more than 98 years, providing a lifespan of support services to individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities in the greater Bay Area. Our mission is to empower people with special needs to achieve their full potential through innovative, inclusive programs and community partnerships. With educational, therapeutic, vocational and family support services, we are distinctive in providing support to an individual throughout his or her lifetime. We collaborate with businesses, third party providers, local nonprofits and various organizations to bring the highest quality services to the children, youth and adults in our programs. Together, we are creating a world where people of all abilities are fully accepted, respect and included in all aspects of life – in the classroom, the workplace and in our communities. Join us in “Turning Disabilities into Possibilities”. For more information, visit Gatepath.org.
Contact: Julia Ballantyne
jballantyne@gatepath.org
916-390-4671 (cell)
Download as .pdf
Press Release
March 9, 2017
Actor Patrick Dempsey Speaks about the Importance of Inclusion
and Community at Gatepath’s Power of Possibilities Event
Openly shares his story of growing up with a learning disability
Burlingame, CA —Award-winning actor Patrick Dempsey, who is best known for his role as a neurologist on the hit television show Grey’s Anatomy, was the guest speaker at Gatepath’s 10th annual Power of Possibilities event on March 8, 2018. As someone who was diagnosed with a learning disability at the age of 12, Dempsey has a personal connection to Gatepath’s mission of empowering people with special needs to achieve their potential. “We’re honored that Patrick Dempsey spoke at our event this year,” said Gatepath CEO Bryan Neider. “His personal perspective helps raise awareness about the importance of creating a culture of acceptance and inclusion in all aspects of life.”
In a conversation moderated by ABC TV news anchor Dion Lim, Dempsey shared how growing up with a learning disability shaped his perspective on life and helped him become a successful actor. “You never feel like you belong,” Dempsey said, “but out of that struggle, you find a unique gift, which is something you excel in. And that’s a gift that comes because you look at the world and see things differently.”
Dempsey also discussed the importance of giving back and paying it forward. “The reason for living,” he said, “is what we do for our communities.” Dempsey reflected on the value of Gatepath’s lifespan of services for people with special needs and developmental disabilities, from infants to seniors. “The work you’re doing here is remarkable,” he said, “and the success you’re having is due to the individuals and corporations that stand up and understand what it means to give back to the communities you’re all part of.”
The Power of Possibilities, which is co-hosted by the Gatepath Auxiliary, brings together likeminded community members to celebrate the achievements of those with developmental disabilities and to support Gatepath’s mission. “This is a truly wonderful event,” commented Gatepath Auxiliary President Cathy Nessier, “for everyone to come together to celebrate the inspirational accomplishments of the individuals and families served by Gatepath.”
In addition to the conversation with Dempsey, Gatepath presented Annett Guterres with the Neal Poppin Award, in recognition of her determination, character and achievement of personal and professional goals. Annett has exceled at her job in a group employment setting at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront hotel, and is now seeking an individual job placement. “In many ways Annett’s story is just beginning,” said Neider. “Being in a group setting was the perfect way for her to develop her skills and find out what she’s really interested in. We’re very excited for Annett as she starts the next phase of her career.”
In a video tribute, Clif Clark, general manager of San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront Hotel, spoke about the contributions of Annett and her Gatepath peers at the hotel. “Gatepath’s been a very important part of this hotel for a long time. Some of the Gatepath employees have been here for more than 20 years. They’re truly part of the Marriott family.” Neider added, “Businesses like the Marriott who partner with Gatepath are providing meaningful employment and opportunities for inclusion and independence.”
The 2018 Power of Possibilities event was made possible by title sponsor, Carole Middleton, and the following platinum sponsors: Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy, Sharon and Joel Friedman, Gatepath Auxiliary, Goldman Sachs Gives, GoPro, Sara and James Jungroth, and Sutter Health, Mills-Peninsula Medical Center. Other sponsors included Bailard, Barulich Dugoni Law Group, Inc., Janice Berthold, Heffernan Insurance Brokers, Kathryn and Richard Breaux, Elaine and George Cohen, D’Elia Construction Inc., Electronic Arts, Karen and Todd Gemmer, Graybird Foundation, Linda and Richard Leao, Diane Christensen Mason and Charles H. Mason Jr., Katie and Bryan Neider, Norman S. Wright Mechanical Equipment, Oracle, Barbara and Paul Regan, Lilli Rey, and Wells Fargo.
Click HERE to view images from the event.
Photography by Andy Berry
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ABOUT GATEPATH
Gatepath has been a cornerstone of our community for more than 97 years, providing support services to individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our mission is to empower people with special needs to achieve their full potential through innovative, inclusive programs and community partnerships. With educational, therapeutic, vocational, and family support services, we provide support to an individual throughout his or her lifetime. We collaborate with businesses, third-party providers, local nonprofits, and various other organizations to bring the highest quality services to the children, youth, and adults in our programs. Together, we are creating a world where people of all abilities are fully accepted, respected, and included in all aspects of life – in the classroom, in the workplace, and in our communities.
For more information, visit Gatepath.org. Our local online resource center is available at Smcfrc.org, where families can connect to invaluable resources and support services.
Contact: Julia Ballantyne, Gatepath
Cell: 916-390-4671
jballantyne@gatepath.org
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Press Release
March 5, 2018
Burlingame, CA — Gatepath announces award-winning actor Patrick Dempsey as guest speaker for the 10th Annual Power of Possibilities event on March 8, 2018. Dempsey, best known for his role as neurologist “McDreamy” on the hit television show Grey’s Anatomy, was diagnosed at the age of 12 with a learning disability.
In a conversation moderated by ABC TV News Anchor Dion Lim, Dempsey will share how growing up with a learning disability built perseverance and shaped his perspective on life. “You have to keep working. I have never given up,” he said in an interview with Barbara Walters.
Dempsey has a personal connection to Gatepath’s mission of creating a world where people of all abilities are fully accepted, respected and included. His philosophy on giving back and paying it forward is that “healthier communities and happier people drive a commitment to the efforts and organizations that positively impact our world.”
“We are honored to have Patrick Dempsey join us at our annual Power of Possibilities event,” said Gatepath CEO Bryan Neider. “His personal perspective helps raise awareness about the importance and value of creating a culture of acceptance and inclusion in all aspects of life.”
The Power of Possibilities event brings community members together to celebrate the achievements of those with developmental disabilities and to support Gatepath’s mission. Previous attendees have called the event “magical,” “heartwarming,” “empowering.”
The Power of Possibilities is known for its notable speakers. Last year, actor Colin Farrell talked about how raising a son with special needs has positively impacted his life. Glee actress Lauren Potter, former San Francisco 49er quarterback Steve Young, and actress and author Holly Robinson-Peete were also previously featured guests.
Gatepath is celebrating more than 98 years of serving children, youth, and adults with special needs and developmental disabilities in the Bay Area and providing support to families.
The Power of Possibilities event is made possible by our title sponsor, Carole Middleton, and the following platinum sponsors: Cotchett, Pitre & McCarthy, Sharon and Joel Friedman, Gatepath Auxiliary, Goldman Sachs Gives, GoPro, Sarah and James Jungroth, Sutter Health, Mills-Peninsula Medical Center. Other sponsors who are generously supporting the event are Bailard, Barulich Dugoni Law Group, Inc., Janice Berthold, Heffernan Insurance Brokers, Kathryn and Richard Breaux, Elaine and George Cohen, D’Elia Construction Inc., Electronic Arts, Karen and Todd Gemmer, Graybird Foundation, Linda and Richard Leao, Diane Christensen Mason and Charles H. Mason Jr., Katie and Bryan Neider, Norman S. Wright Mechanical Equipment, Oracle, Barbara and Paul Regan, Lilli Rey, and Wells Fargo.
Learn more about this at www.gatepath.org/POP.
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ABOUT GATEPATH
Gatepath has been a cornerstone of our community for more than 97 years, providing support services to individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our mission is to empower people with special needs to achieve their full potential through innovative, inclusive programs and community partnerships. With educational, therapeutic, vocational, and family support services, we provide support to an individual throughout his or her lifetime. We collaborate with businesses, third-party providers, local nonprofits, and various other organizations to bring the highest quality services to the children, youth, and adults in our programs. Together, we are creating a world where people of all abilities are fully accepted, respected, and included in all aspects of life – in the classroom, in the workplace, and in our communities.
For more information, visit Gatepath.org. Our local online resource center is available at Smcfrc.org, where families can connect to invaluable resources and support services.
Contact: Julia Ballantyne, Gatepath
Cell: 916-390-4671
jballantyne@gatepath.org
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Ticket sales end Friday, March 6, 2017!
Actor Colin Farrell joins Gatepath at an exclusive dinner event celebrating and supporting people with development disabilities! The Power of Possibilities event is for everyone who wants to create a community where people of all abilities are accepted, respected and included. Previous attendees have called the event “magical,” “heart-warming,” “empowering.”
GET TICKETS!
This memorable event includes:
- A Personal and Candid Conversation with Colin Farrell, hosted by esteemed Bay Area news anchor and journalist, Diane Dwyer!
- Dream Drawing to win one of three fabulous prizes!
- Social Hour Mix & Mingle with like-minded social entrepreneurs, business and nonprofit leaders. Complimentary wine!
- Art Exhibit featuring an eclectic array of creative art therapy pieces available for purchase!
- Delicious Dining Experience with specially prepared cuisine paired with local fine wines!
- Live Auction of other amazing prizes, including tickets to the ESPY Awards!
- Achievement Award Winner Announced Live, recognizing the accomplishments of someone who has faced challenges and ultimately achieved their dreams!
The proceeds from this event benefit Gatepath, the largest nonprofit in the Bay Area supporting the hopes and dreams of the children, youth and adults with disabilities. Join us for this unforgettable evening.
The role of media in promoting inclusive atmospheres is taking center stage these days as we continue to see
positive results by actors and actresses sharing their personal stories about a family member with special needs.
With their message, hope and opportunity continue to grow and bring our goal of “Accept. Respect. Include.”
closer to reality for the individuals and families we serve.
When we come together and build inclusive communities, we see the “abilities” not the “disabilities.” Join us on
Friday, October 16, 2015, and you will see The Power of Possibilities as we are joined by Hollywood star Holly
Robinson Peete and newly discovered film actor David DeSanctis.
Holly Robinson Peete, best-known for her acting roles on 21 Jump Street and Hangin’ with Mr.
Cooper, has become a voice for her son with autism. Holly says, “I wouldn’t change my son
for the world, but I would change the world for my son.” Holly and her husband, Rodney
Peete, former NFL quarterback, formed the HollyRod Foundation and serve as activists for
their son and others affected by autism.
David DeSanctis co-starred in Where Hope Grows released earlier this
summer. The film won the Heartland Film Festival Audience Choice Award and was an
official selection for the Dallas International Film Festival. David, a young man with Down
syndrome, travels the country speaking to non-profits and special needs groups. Where Hope
Grows is “An unexpected journey. An unexpected friendship.” Click on the film title link
above to see the official movie trailer.
The Power of Possibilities
October 16, 2015 @ Sofitel Hotel
Registration: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Luncheon and Program: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
FROM THE AGENCY by Jeanne Berube
