Night Of PossAbilities 2026
On September 25, 2026, friends, families, partners, and supporters filled the J Powers Ballroom at the Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic for A Night of PossAbilities. The evening celebrated the people we serve and our mission of creating opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to contribute to and connect with the community.
A Welcome To The Community Table
Executive Director Sue Mackert opened the evening by welcoming everyone to “this community table.” Her first thanks went to the people who matter most: the individuals with disabilities in the room. She then thanked the parents, guardians, caregivers, and PossAbilities employees who walk alongside them every day.
We were honored to be joined by community leaders. They included Senator John Hoffman and Yvette Hoffman; Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson and Lori Torgerson, who were joined by Special Olympics athletes at their table; Senator Liz Boldon; former legislator and county commissioner Sheila Kiscaden; and Olmsted County Commissioner Brian Mueller. Sue also recognized our Board of Directors and thanked former board members Gail Bishop, Guy Finne, Nick Dibble, Peggy O’Toole Martin, and Brandon Sampson for helping move PossAbilities forward.
Stories, Music, and Poetry That Inspire
Musician Cassie Hart has attended our programs since 2017. She filled the room with her powerful voice and gifted musicianship.
At the heart of the night, three people we serve took the stage: Aoife, Jim, and Jenna. They shared who they are, how PossAbilities has helped them live their best lives, and their hopes for the future. Their stories reminded everyone in the room why this work matters.
Poet Adam Finke for his moving poem about Everyday Heros.
Honoring Two Remarkable Families
We were proud to present the Exceptional Service Award to Sheriff Kevin and Lori Torgerson for their dedication to Special Olympics. Senator John Hoffman, Yvette Hoffman, and their daughter Hope received the Outstanding Courage and Commitment Award. Both families show what it means to stand with the disability community.
Looking Ahead: The PossAbilities Achievement Hub
Sue shared our story, which began in the late 1950s with three determined mothers who believed their children deserved a place in the community. She then gave an update on the monies raised for the PossAbilities Achievement Hub. The Hub will be a community-driven space that brings education, workforce development, family support, wellness, and lifelong learning together for people of all abilities in one place.
Thank You
Our sponsors make A Night of PossAbilities possible, and we’re deeply grateful for their generosity:
Mayo Clinic • Gail & Allen Bishop • Think Bank • Lynn Roberts Charitable Fund • KTTC • Merchants Bank • Tim O’Neill • Eagle Rock Bank • J. Powers • Sheriff Kevin & Lori Torgerson • OMC • Premier Banks • RSP • Paycom • Jennifer Geraci
Thank you to the individuals and organizations who donated live and silent auction items. Your generosity turned bids into real support for the people we serve.
Thank you to auctioneer John Kruesel, our Emcee Brock Bergey, our volunteers, our staff, and every guest who joined us. Together, we’re building a community where people with disabilities are thriving, valued, and engaged.
Photo credit Elizabeth Nida Photography/www.nidaphoto.com
Artists at PossAbilities create gifts this holiday season
(KIMT) – Christmas shopping is underway for many, and one Rochester organization is giving people some unique gift ideas.
PossAbilities hosted its first ‘Holiday Craft Show and Sale’ on Dec. 2. The organization creates opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. All of the artwork being sold was made by artists enrolled in the PossAbilities ArtAbilities program, which offers a unique space for these individuals to express themselves and grow through art.
