At Incompass, we believe that strong community connections are the foundation of meaningful support, which is why we’re excited to introduce our new Community Engagement Manager, Katie Desmarais!
In this role, Katie is focused on building partnerships, raising awareness, and helping people better understand the resources Incompass has to offer. To help put a face to the name, we sat down with Katie for a Q&A where she shared more about her background, what community engagement means to her, and how she hopes to make an impact.
Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’ve always been passionate about building connections that create meaningful change. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on cultivating relationships that strengthen communities and open doors for individuals to thrive. I’m currently pursuing my Master’s Degree in Digital Communication Leadership, which is helping me deepen my understanding of how strategic communication can drive inclusive impact. Outside of work, I’m someone who values curiosity, collaboration, and making a positive difference in everything I do.
Q: What does your role as Community Engagement Manager involve?
As the Community Engagement Manager, my goal is to amplify Incompass Human Services’ presence in the community by building strong partnerships, sourcing inclusive opportunities, and fostering meaningful relationships. I work to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not only seen but truly included—in workplaces, neighborhoods, and social spaces alike. My role is all about creating opportunities that help people feel empowered and connected.
Q: What excites you most about working with Incompass?
The mission of Incompass deeply resonates with me. I’m inspired by the organization’s commitment to person-centered care and its dedication to helping people live fully inclusive lives. I’m excited to contribute to a team that’s forward-thinking, compassionate, and truly driven by purpose. It’s a privilege to help expand that impact even further into the community.
Q: Any final thoughts?
I’m so grateful to be part of the Incompass family and can’t wait to get out in the community, meet our partners and supporters, and work together to build a more inclusive world. If you see me at an event—or even just around town—please say hi! I’m always up for a conversation and a chance to connect.
As we send out this latest edition of the “Incompass Insights” newsletter, I find myself reflecting deeply on the power of community. It’s a fitting theme, especially during National Volunteer Week, just days after celebrating Earth Day here at Incompass, and in a month when Autism Awareness is front and center. We also have a new Community Engagement Manager we’re excited to introduce!
Last week, we had the incredible honor of welcoming players from the Boston Fleet WPHL team to our Omni Way location. They rolled up their sleeves alongside our day program participants, helping prepare the garden beds for spring planting, decorating the parking lot with vibrant chalk art, and—naturally—playing some lively street hockey! Watching the sheer joy on the faces of our participants as they scored goals and learned goal celebrations from the pros was a moment our team will never forget.
Our community engagement doesn’t stop there. Our Strive2Thrive program participants have been out and about, building connections and life skills at places like Zesty’s Pizza and Cold Stone Creamery. Seeing the program participants thrive in the community is so meaningful, as this program is one of our newest at Incompass aimed at empowering people with ASD without an intellectual disability.
These small acts of kindness create memories that go far beyond any annual report — they embody the true spirit of empowerment that drives our mission every day. Moments like these remind me just how fortunate I am to be the CEO of this extraordinary agency, and why we continue to advocate for the people we serve. Several of our senior leadership team members traveled to Washington, D.C., for the Disability Policy Seminar, where we joined voices with human services leaders from across the country to fight for the rights and dignity of people with disabilities. Advocacy is — and will always be — a cornerstone of our mission. And while the challenges are real, so is our determination to build a more inclusive world.
As you read through this newsletter, I encourage you to take a moment to celebrate the incredible community that we are all part of at Incompass. And if you’re looking for a way to engage even more directly, get in touch with our new community engagement manager Katie Desmarais. We are always looking for people willing to volunteer at Omni Way, hire people from our employment program, and host programs in the community.
And of course, I’d love for you to join me at our Stride for a Cause Kentucky Derby Day Party on Saturday, May 3 at The Barn at Gibbet Hill in Groton! Don your best hat, bring your festive spirit, and spend an unforgettable afternoon with Care Champions who are united in purpose and passion. There will be games, prizes, raffles — and most importantly — plenty of laughter and camaraderie.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, safe, and healthy spring season!
The spirit of Earth Day and Volunteer Week was at Omni Way last week, as players and staff from the Boston Fleet joined individuals supported by Incompass for an unforgettable day of giving back, outdoor fun, and community connection.
Under bright spring skies, the event kicked off with a shared mission: to prepare the garden beds for the warmer weather ahead. Fleet players rolled up their sleeves alongside Incompass program participants to dig in the soil, prepare seeds, and ready the space for a season of growth. With laughter, teamwork, and plenty of sunshine, the garden was transformed into a vibrant symbol of collaboration and care.
But the fun didn’t stop there. The chalk art station quickly became a colorful hub of creativity, as participants and players showcased their talents across the pavement. Just a few feet away the “Recycling Relay” took place, where participants teamed up for a fun challenge designed to promote teamwork, communication, and environmental awareness.
The day wrapped up with a highlight that had everyone buzzing: a friendly hockey game between individuals and Boston Fleet players. With sticks in hand and excitement in the air, the makeshift rink saw moments of sportsmanship, joy, and connection that embodied the essence of the day.
“Participating in and hosting this event was so fun, the smiles on our individuals’ faces were proof of what a great time it was,” said Emily Horn, Director of Day Services. “The ladies from Boston Fleet didn’t hesitate at all to jump right in with our individuals, so nice to see!”
The event was part of a larger series of activities that underscored the power of partnerships in creating meaningful experiences. Incompass is proud to collaborate with organizations like the Boston Fleet that share a commitment to inclusion, service, and community.
Take a look at the fun we had with the Boston Fleet!
At Incompass Human Services, advocacy is at the heart of everything we do. Recently, members of our leadership team went the extra mile—literally—traveling to both coasts of the country to advocate for the needs and rights of the individuals and families we serve.
Whether navigating complex systems, supporting someone through a critical transition, or ensuring continued access to vital resources, our staff stepped up in meaningful and personal ways. These cross-country efforts weren’t about maintaining programs—they were about standing up for the Individuals we serve, wherever they are.
“This is a powerful example of what it means to lead with empathy,” said Gillien Feld, Chief Operating Officer of Incompass Human Services. “Our team doesn’t just provide services—they advocate fiercely, build trust, and ensure that every voice is heard. I’m so proud of their commitment to walking alongside those we serve, no matter the distance.”
These efforts reflect our belief that advocacy goes beyond the office or the service plan—it’s about showing up when it matters most. From helping individuals navigate housing or healthcare systems, to standing by families through life-changing events, our team brings compassion and determination to every situation.
And while these recent trips took our staff from coast to coast, they reflect the kind of advocacy and care that happens every single day at Incompass. Because to us, going the distance is just part of what it means to truly be person-centered.
Last year’s Stride for a Cause was the first Incompass gala I attended—and while I had a blast I can tell you that I still hear from people in the room about how much fun they had too! It was one of those nights where the energy was high, the hats were fabulous, and the matching bowties were plentiful! It’s definitely not your typical formal fundraiser, and that’s exactly what made it so memorable. In true Care Champion fashion, we created something fun, engaging, and deeply connected to our mission. And this year, we’re doing it all again—bigger and better!
On Saturday, May 3, I invite you to join us as we bring a bit of Churchill Downs to the picturesque Barn at Gibbet Hill in Groton. No assigned seating. No long speeches. Just good food, good people, and a great cause. If you haven’t been before, here’s is what you can expect…
🎟️ Leader Board Raffle – Pick the winning horse and you could walk away with $1,000!
👒 Best Hat and Best-Dressed Contests – It might not be Churchill Downs, but you’d never know it based on the fashion show our guests put on!
📍 Scenic New Venue – The Barn at Gibbet Hill is a beautiful setting that makes the perfect spring backdrop for celebration.
🎁 Exciting Raffle Prizes – We’re talking Red Sox and Patriots tickets, Bose headphones, and more can’t-miss items.
(Still not sure what to expect? Check out the highlight video from last year’s event—you can literally feel the energy in the room.)
But beyond the hats, raffles, and mint juleps, what makes this event so special is you. Our community of Care Champions—staff, families, supporters, partners—is what makes Incompass thrive. And opportunities like this to come together, celebrate, and lift each other up are more important than ever.
🎫 Buy your tickets now and invite your friends, family, and colleagues to come along. Every ticket, every raffle entry, every toast raised helps us empower the people and families who count on Incompass every day.
We’ll see you at the starting gate!
