Celebrating Brilliance, Resilience, and Community: Highlights from the 2025 Golden Goals Awards
On October 21, the spirit of celebration and recognition filled the air at Roswell United Methodist Church as InCommunity hosted its 2025 Golden Goals Awards. This annual event isn't just another luncheon - it’s a powerful tribute to the individuals, advocates, and organizations that are making a real difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
“This is one of the most meaningful events on our calendar,” said Meg Blackwood, CEO of InCommunity. “It’s a privilege to honor individuals who demonstrate resilience, creativity, leadership, and joy each day. The stories of our winners inspire and remind us why our work matters – to empower individuals to live independently, connect with their communities, and thrive.”
Meet the 2025 Golden Goals Honorees:
Community Impact Award: Daniel Wondaferew
Daniel isn’t just a member of the USA Virtus Swim Team - he’s the captain. And beyond the pool, he’s a champion in his community, always ready to support and uplift others.
Dynamic Duo Award: Steven Painter & Ramond Fletcher Thomas
Teamwork, trust, and friendship are the foundation of this incredible pair. Together, they show what it means to build a bond that lifts not only each other but everyone around them.
Sunshine Award: David Allen
David lights up every room he walks into with his enthusiasm, positivity, and infectious energy. He’s a walking reminder of the power of a good attitude.
Ingenuity Award: Anna Cuviello
With a paintbrush in hand and creativity in her heart, Anna brings the world to life through her arts and crafts. Her self-expression inspires everyone around her.
Visionary Award: Shaquille Cooper
Shaquille has big dreams - and the drive to make them happen. From pursuing higher education to traveling abroad and feeding the homeless in Metro Atlanta, he’s living proof of purposeful action.
Exceptional Advocate Award: Marlayne Merrell-English
Marlayne is a fierce advocate and compassionate leader whose work has deeply impacted individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Her voice makes change happen.
Community Service & Leadership Award: Marsha Kennedy
Marsha leads with heart, offering spiritual guidance and volunteer service through her work at Roswell United Methodist Church. She’s a true example of servant leadership.
Inclusive Company of the Year: The Soop
The Soop stands out for its commitment to inclusion. From translation services to engaging community activities, they create a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
DSP of the Year: Brenda Gates
Brenda brings passion, energy, and tireless dedication to her work supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. She goes above and beyond - every single day.
These Stories Spark Change
When you hear about Daniel’s leadership, Anna’s creativity, or Shaquille’s ambition, it does more than inspire - it informs. It challenges outdated beliefs and shows what’s possible when people with developmental disabilities are given the opportunity to thrive.
Events like Golden Goals aren’t just about applause. They’re about action.
They remind employers to hire inclusively.
They remind schools to support all learners.
They remind communities that disability is not a deficit - it’s a dimension of diversity.
Why This Celebration Matters More Than Ever
Recognition is more than a moment - it's a movement.
Events like the Golden Goals Awards aren’t just about applause and good stories. They’re about visibility, representation, and change. When we publicly honor individuals with developmental disabilities - and the people and organizations who champion them - we send a powerful message:
That leadership and innovation come in many forms.
That disability is not a barrier to contribution - it’s a part of human diversity.
That inclusion isn’t charity - it’s a community standard.
These celebrations remind employers to hire inclusively.
They encourage communities to support access and belonging.
And they affirm for every individual that they are seen, valued, and essential.
In a world that still too often overlooks this population, the Golden Goals Awards say: We see you. We honor you. We’re with you.
Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep raising the bar. Because when inclusion wins - everyone wins.
We couldn’t have done it without our generous supporters who made the event possible. Because of your support, we’re building a more inclusive future - one where every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive.