Paladin Inc. has dedicated its time and resources into supporting individuals with disabilities throughout La Porte County. On May 18, Paladin hosted its first Garden of Inclusion Spring Gala at the Stardust Event Center within Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa in Michigan City. The evening served as a vibrant celebration of diversity and unity of persons with disabilities, children and seniors, and community supporters.
“I was given the ability and the world was calling me to be a speaker,” said Keynote Speaker Mark Hublar. “I always talk about expanding opportunities for inclusion for people with disabilities. I was born with Down syndrome, but I don’t act like it because it was simply something I was born with. I want to show the world all that we with disabilities can do.”
Paladin’s First Spring Gala is intended to bring awareness and allocation of resources to those underserved in the community. The theme, “Garden of Inclusion,” beautifully reflected Paladin’s mission to cultivate a community where persons of all abilities can thrive and reach their full potential. Gala attendees shared the experience of meeting and interacting with Paladin’s clients and staff members to better understand their mission. Paladin’s gala unified attendees with a buffet-style dinner, a silent auction, and a dance party. The community was most ignited by the passion in the keynote speech.
“We all need the opportunity to live our dreams,” said Hublar.
Hublar is a professional motivational speaker and Down syndrome advocate. A Hoosier born with Down syndrome, he continues to make great strides in building a more inclusive society—from helping to advance employment opportunities to lobbying for legislation to assist individuals with disabilities and promote rights for unborn children. Hublar’s business, known as Mark J. Hublar Speaks, has already won the Hoosier Business in Action Award.
“I was frequently told all the many things I could not do—play sports, graduate, find love, or speak in front of large crowds,” said Hublar. “Yet, I advocated for myself and others like me. God gave me the talent of being a public speaker. I was able to find my purpose in helping others with disabilities live a full life.”
Hublar tied his speech to his new book, “A Miracle Named Mark,” to show the fulfillment and opportunities he has achieved as a person with a disability. He also tugged at the heartstrings of attendees with a rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine,” as he shared the many ways to create a more inclusive and equitable community for all. Hublar’s girlfriend, Treasure Lehman, was honored by Hublar and exuded gratitude for the opportunity to share their message.
“I love the idea of this gala,” said Lehman. “The idea is perfect and I am proud to be speaking to inspire.”
Notable attendees and public officials expressed gratitude for Paladin's work at the gala, including U.S. Representative for the First Congressional District of Indiana Frank Mrvan.
“My wife and I are blessed to be here today,” said Mrvan, “A year ago, we were able to bring back about a million dollars for Paladin in an earmark, and we get to see how that has been used to develop and strengthen the support systems. This evening showed the phenomenal efforts Paladin, Michigan City, and LaPorte County have made to support families. My hope is that tonight has a ripple effect to continue improving people’s quality of life.”
Representative Rodney Pol showed his personal support for championing disabled persons and, like Mrvan, Paladin’s inclusion and accessibility initiatives.
“Paladin’s work really hits home for me,” said Pol. “My mom was a teacher’s aide in special education, and from the get-go, I had the unique opportunity to work with people with disabilities. I watched my mom, who is now the Director of Special Education for Chicago, be super patient and see her put on events like the Special Olympics and proms. Seeing how Paladin is consistently looking to help members and find employment opportunities is so great.”
Jim Clarida, the business manager and financial secretary at IBEW Local 531, emphasized the important role community involvement has in supporting individuals with disabilities in the community.
“Every organization, especially charities, are only as strong as the community that supports them,” said Clarida. “I think it’s important that the community understands the importance of what Paladin does. I also loved Mark’s speech. He killed it!”
State Senator Mike Bohacek also shared his vision for a more inclusive and equitable community for people of all abilities.
“It has been an amazing time to celebrate those that have disabilities,” said Bohacek. “It shows how much the community has to give. It is important to remember that our disabled community in the state of Indiana has an 85% unemployment rate. Let’s find a way to work together to create opportunities so we can do a better job.”
All money raised through the Spring Gala is being utilized in Paladin’s services to help individuals with disabilities, along with early childhood development and non-emergency medical transportation. The auction also brought forth a glasswork gift basket made by Paladin’s classrooms.
To learn more about Paladin’s mission, services, and upcoming events, visit paladin.care.
