10/23/2026
"โBe the difference.โ
Those words from Joe and Gabriel LaPointe, recipients of the Care Community Partner Award at COCA 2026, captured the spirit of an evening centered on care and community.
In his remarks, Joe reminded us that the work we do for our families, friends and communities matters โ but so does the care we give ourselves. He encouraged us to give ourselves grace, make room for joy, rest when we need to, and remember that our contributions matter.
His message was a powerful reminder that caring for others starts with recognizing our own worth, too.
โYour setbacks do not erase your contributions.โ
Thank you, Joe and Gabriel, for being part of our Circle of Care and for reminding us to continue doing good while making room to care for ourselves along the way. ๐
"