Virginia Beach Honors Individuals and Organizations Championing Disability Inclusion
The City of Virginia Beach recently recognized individuals, a service organization, and a business dedicated to enriching the lives of residents with disabilities and fostering full community integration. The awards were presented on March 19 by members of the Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Disabilities, with City Council member Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond participating in the ceremony. Mayor Bobby Dyer offered his congratulations via a video message according to the City of Virginia Beach.
Award Recipients
Hope House Foundation (Service Organization)
Hope House Foundation was honored for its commitment to supporting adults with developmental disabilities, enabling them to live independently in their homes and apartments. The organization focuses on promoting independence and facilitating meaningful participation in work and community life. In the past year, Hope House served 27 Virginia Beach residents, assisting them with housing, employment, and community engagement.
Elizabeth “Lily” Tyree-Herrmann (Individual)
Elizabeth “Lily” Tyree-Herrmann, a special education teacher at Holland Elementary School, received an award for founding an inclusive Best Buddies Club. This club pairs general education students with students in special education, fostering friendships, advocacy, and a stronger sense of belonging. Tyree-Herrmann has observed the development of friendships extending beyond the program itself and continued to provide tutoring support even after her contract ended.
Jen and Juice (Business)
Jen and Juice, a local provider of organic foods and beverages, was recognized for partnering with service providers to offer hands-on work experience to individuals with developmental disabilities. Volunteers gained practical skills in food preparation, cleaning, and customer service within a supportive environment, demonstrating the role local businesses can play in inclusive employment.
Bailey Hartley (Individual)
Bailey Hartley, a captain with Virginia Beach Emergency Medical Services, developed and implemented COLT Kits. These kits provide sensory tools and communication support for neurodivergent and autistic individuals during emergency responses, aiming to reduce stress, improve communication, and ensure safer, more respectful care.
Christine Ross (Individual)
Christine Ross was honored for founding Champions Baseball, the first special needs baseball team at Great Neck. This initiative expanded into Aid Another, a broader movement for inclusive recreation and community participation in Virginia Beach. Ross continues to lead inclusive sports, camps, and social programs, while also mentoring youth volunteers and building community partnerships.
Michelle Prendergast (Individual)
Michelle Prendergast’s leadership was recognized for supporting expanded programming, increased participation, and reduced waiting lists for individuals with disabilities seeking opportunities after aging out of school-based services. Her work helps individuals build friendships, develop independence, and remain connected to their community.
Nominations for 2026 Awards
The Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Disabilities is now accepting nominations for its 2026 annual awards. Nominations must be submitted by November 30 online at VirginiaBeach.gov/MCPD.
Individuals without internet access can use computers at the Bayside and Central Virginia Beach Public Libraries, which offer assistive devices for those with impaired vision. A print version of the nomination form is also available at any Virginia Beach Public Library or downloadable from the website.
Completed forms can be emailed to the Virginia Beach Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator at adacoordinator@vbgov.com or mailed to the Office of the Mayor, Municipal Center, Building 1, 2401 Courthouse Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. For more information, contact Raymond Mattes, ADA coordinator, at 757-385-8444.