Community Enterprises experienced a terrible loss when Karen Lachapelle, the Chairperson of our Board of Directors, died following severe injuries sustained from an accident involving her wheelchair.  Karen was a tremendous supporter of our organization and had been on the Board for over seventeen years, serving as Chairperson for the past five years.  Karen was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease.  Her mobility was limited to the use of a power wheelchair.  Despite her physical limitations, Karen possessed incredible energy and was a very active and passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities.  She attended countless agency events, fundraisers, assisted in our preparation for accreditation, and was an invaluable mentor and supporter of the President, Dick Venne.  Karen was always there to help and she brought insight, humor and an indomitable spirit to the organization. We miss her here at Community Enterprises.

To honor Karen and continue her legacy at Community Enterprises, the organization has established a fund in her name.  “Karen’s Fund” will be used to support recreation and wellness activities for severely disabled program participants throughout the organization. 

In its’ first year, Karen’s fund awarded over $4,000.00 in grants for individuals with disabilities served by Community Enterprises to participate in recreation and/or wellness activities.

The following photos are of activities made possible for these individuals by Karen's Fund: