ORLANDO  | The annual Harvest Ball to raise funds for Magnify of Central Florida celebrated God’s children sharing their gifts.

Hosted by Brian Shields, Bishop John Noonan shared the stage with Eileen, a resident of Bishop Grady Villas. The two opened the evening in prayer sharing, “You made me a gift in your image.”

Magnify of Central Florida’s executive director, Kevin Johnson, shared Magnify’s accomplishments over the past year including the extension of two additional Project SEARCH sites totaling 6 sites across Osceola County, supporting 60 high schools. Through Magnify’s Project SEARCH, 57 jobseekers with disabilities landed secure employment.

Johnson noted, “Every person is a gift, with something to bring to the world.” With the mission to magnify the God-given gifts of people with disabilities, Magnify does so through Bishop Grady Villas, a residence for men and women with special abilities. In addition, through various partnerships, Magnify supported more than 200 people through their programs.

St. Margaret Mary Parish in Winter Park was honored with the Community Legacy Award for commitment of faith and support, “compassionate advocacy, and a shared belief in God-given gifts of people with disabilities,” said Maureen Kane, chair of Magnify’s Board of Directors.

Then Bryan Harrold shared the story of his sister, Nicole, one of Bishop Grady Villas’ newest residents. He shared Nicole is “a national champion Special Olympian.” Nicole also received the Points of Light Award from former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and accomplished numerous accolades. He shared how his parents did all they could to help her advance in all areas of life. Their father died eight years ago, and their mother passed on Jan. 21, 2026. “After more than 10 years on the waiting list, Nicole would move into Bishop Grady Villas the very next day. If that’s not an example of divine intervention, I don’t know what is,” he said.

Harrold spoke of the common story held by most families with children with disabilities. He said, “But that is what makes Magnify and Bishop Grady Villas such a blessing to our community. It’s a haven for our society’s most vulnerable constituents, and a sense of relief for concerned loved ones who have lost countless nights of sleep worrying about their future.” Today, Nicole is settled into her own apartment and just completed her first round of on-the-job training. She is one of many success stories benefitting from the fruits of the Harvest Ball auction, fundraising and support of so many enabling programs to develop gifts of those with unique abilities.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, October 22, 2026