News

Pittsburgh, PA (October 26, 2026)—For 18-year-old Katie Hannan, a dream trip to Disney World wasn't just a birthday celebration - it was the moment her hard work overcoming sensory and social challenges paid off, culminating in a bold high-five with a Storm Trooper and a photo with Kylo Ren. Katie’s unforgettable journey is just one of many dreams made possible by Achieva’s Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund (Fund), which has now distributed over $200,000 in products, services, and experiences to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across western Pennsylvania.

"A day like this, only a few years earlier, would have overwhelmed Katie," her family shared. "Her innocence and belief in magic took this trip to another level. She broke down barriers, and her confidence truly shined. Without the Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund, this would not have been possible."

In Fiscal Year 2025-26, the Fund approved 160 applications totaling $109,000, helping to meet the unique needs and goals of each applicant. Beyond life-changing trips like Katie’s, grants helped fund:

• Travel & Memories: Trips to destinations like Splash Lagoon, the Louisville Zoo, and the Ark Encounter, as well as family lake and beach vacations.
• Community Belonging: Activity memberships to Kennywood, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aviary, and the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.
• Accessible Recreation: Adaptive bikes, specialized strollers, gym memberships, and even a local fencing club membership.

The Fund honors Cecil and David Rosenthal, long-time recipients of support from Achieva, whose lives were cut short in the Tree of Life synagogue tragedy. All donations to the Fund ensure their legacy lives on by fostering inclusion and empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives in their communities.

"The Rosenthal Fund celebrates Cecil and David’s spirit," said Steve Suroviec, Achieva’s President and CEO. "Their lives were a testament to the importance of belonging. Seeing stories like Katie's reminds us why this work matters - ensuring every person with a disability has the opportunity to experience the joy and growth that comes from full community participation."

The Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund is open to people with intellectual or developmental disabilities residing in the following Pennsylvania counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lehigh, Washington, and Westmoreland.

Applications are accepted online. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Stoyer, Director of Operations for Achieva Family Trust, at 412.995.5000 Ext. 493.

Those who wish to support the Cecil and David Rosenthal Memorial Fund can make a donation online at www.achieva.info/rosenthal.

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Achieva is a non-profit organization located in southwestern Pennsylvania providing lifelong supports to people with disabilities and their families. Achieva envisions a community where all people with disabilities lead lives of personal significance. Our services range from early intervention therapies and employment supports to special needs trusts and supports in the home and community. Achieva advocates for, empowers, and supports people with disabilities and their families throughout their lives.

Media Contact:
Brenda Vasilescu, Director of Digital Communications, Achieva
412-643-4836 | bvasilescu@achieva.info