FY26 Impact Report / Highlights
FY26 highlights
The people behind the numbers, in their own words — and the moments that put The Price Center in the news.
Stories
Portraits of community
Employment
Adam, 16 years at Fenway Park
“Success for our individuals is measured by longevity in their jobs, as they show up early, stay dependable, and bring a smile to work each day.”
— Abby Parrilla, Chief Executive Officer
Community Based Day and Employment Services participant Adam has spent the past 16 years welcoming fans as a greeter at Fenway Park.
Adam’s dedication, reliability and positive attitude have made him a valued member of the Red Sox game-day team. His journey was featured on WCVB Channel 5’s 5 for Good, highlighting the impact of meaningful employment and community inclusion.
Athletics
Melanie runs her own race
“It’s the kind of event that reminds you what sport is actually for.”
Melanie runs the 200 meters, the 400 meters and the 4×100-meter relay — well enough to be selected for the Massachusetts team at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games at the University of Minnesota. She came home with three bronze medals: one in each of her events.
She was joined at the Special Olympics Massachusetts Summer Games by many other Price Center Superstars from Day Habilitation, Specialized Supports and Community Based Day Services. Competing alongside more than 1,500 athletes in powerlifting, tennis, swimming, track and field and volleyball, they won a few medals — and lots of hearts and minds.
The arts on ice
Rebecca, two-time national champion
Rebecca, a participant in our Specialized Supports program, skates with Overture of Boston, the Theater On Ice Adaptive Team at the Skating Club of Boston. In June 2026 her team won first place and the gold medal in the Adaptive Division at the National Theater On Ice Competition in Irvine, California — earning the title of two-time National Champions.
Rebecca also trains as an individual skater and won a gold medal in the Special Olympics division for her solo freestyle performance at Williams College. Congratulations, Rebecca!
Staff spotlight
Celebrating our team
Congratulations to the Price Center staff members honored this year for their outstanding work.
Rising Star Award
Andrea Birch-Christian
Specialized Supports
Excellence Award
Lori Dwarika & Ivelisse Colon
Nursing (pictured left to right)
New this year
Inside the Kindness Café
Our new café trains baristas, serves neighbors and has become a gathering place for the whole Price Center community.
In the news
The Price Center in the news
Press coverage, features and recognition from July 2025 – June 2026.
WCVB Channel 5 · 5 for Good
Red Sox greeter thrives working at Fenway Park
Adam’s 16 years as a Fenway greeter, and what meaningful employment makes possible.
Watch the story →
WCVB Channel 5 · New on 5
The Kindness Café: an inclusive barista training program in Newton
Channel 5 visited on opening day to meet our new baristas.
Watch the story →
Last Minute Productions · One Big Boat
Abby Parrilla on One Big Boat
Our CEO shares her story and why supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, matters.
Watch the feature →More coverage
- Feb 2026Boston 25 News‘Help us empower people’: The Kindness Café in Newton aims to serve up confidence with every cupRead more →
- Feb 2026NBC10 BostonNew ‘Kindness Café’ in Newton is serving up opportunity for adults with disabilitiesRead more →
- Apr 2026Autism Around the GlobeThe Kindness Café at The Price Center: Brewing Opportunity, Confidence, and CommunityRead more →