At the 2026 Crystal Ball, we were honored to spotlight two remarkable members of Easterseals Veterans Rally Point (VRP) whose journeys demonstrate the transformative power of connection, support, and opportunity.
One of those honorees was Mary Bennett, known throughout VRP as "Mary on the Mic." A retired U.S. Marine Corps Corporal and student of the VRP Broadcasting Studio, generously supported by Comcast NBCUniversal, Mary shared a powerful story of resilience. After losing her husband, a fellow Veteran, to suicide, Mary became largely homebound and isolated. Through Veterans Rally Point, she found a renewed sense of purpose, friendship, and belonging. The Broadcasting Studio gave her the confidence to share her voice, while the VRP community helped her reconnect with the world around her. Today, Mary shares her story on her own podcast.
We also celebrated Amy Dudek, daughter of Veteran Joseph Dudek and a graduate of VRP's Professional Workforce Readiness (PWR) Program. When Amy joined the program, she was looking for direction and opportunity. What she found was much more.
"From the moment I walked into the class, I knew I was in a special place," Amy shared. "It's like my second home."
Through the PWR Program, Amy developed the confidence, skills, and professional tools needed to pursue her goals. From resume development and interview preparation to networking and career exploration, the program opened doors she never knew existed. With guidance from VRP staff and the encouragement of her peers, Amy successfully landed her dream job as a Direct Support Associate, where she now helps others every day.
But for Amy, the greatest impact went beyond employment. Through volunteering and participating in VRP programs, she built meaningful relationships and found a supportive community that became family.
"The connections I've made here are priceless," she shared. "It's about being surrounded by people who understand your journey and genuinely want to see you succeed."
Though their journeys were different, both Mary and Amy found the same thing at Veterans Rally Point: community. They found a place where they were welcomed, supported, and empowered.
At the 2026 Crystal Ball, we were proud to honor Mary and Amy and hear them share their stories firsthand. Their experiences are powerful reminders that when Veterans and their families are connected to the right resources, opportunities, and community, lives can be transformed.
