This year, REACH Inc. is proud to recognize two recipients of the annual Suzanne Raffa Mission Award: Cheryl Prinipato and Gail Monfils.
This award honors individuals who embody the REACH Mission and the values of our founder, Suzanne Raffa. Suzanne founded REACH in 1987 with the belief that “the world needed a little help in recognizing the beauty in everyone, and everyone’s absolute right to a safe, warm place to live, grow, and be a part of the community.”
Her vision continues to guide REACH today as we support individuals in living happy, independent, and self-determined lives.
Cheryl Prinipato (pictured left) has demonstrated the REACH core values throughout her journey from direct care staff to Program Director. While her title has changed, her commitment to the women she supports has never wavered.
Cheryl is truly the heart of her program. She has created a home where the women feel valued, respected, supported, and happy. She encourages them to make their own choices, express their preferences, build relationships, experience new things, and live meaningful, self-determined lives.
Cheryl goes far beyond what is required—not because she wants recognition, but because she genuinely cares. She is a trusted leader who communicates honestly, works collaboratively, advocates fiercely, and has earned the respect of staff, families, guardians, and DDS partners.
Cheryl reminds us that leadership is about believing in the people we support, advocating for their choices, and helping them reach their potential. She is truly a reflection of the REACH mission.
Gail Monfils (pictured right), our Director of Nursing, brings compassion, patience, kindness, and genuine care to everything she does. She takes the time to listen, explain, and reassure, helping the individuals we support feel valued, respected, and safe.
Gail sees the person first. She notices when something isn’t quite right, takes action, and makes sure each individual receives the care and support they need.
She brings that same compassion to her coworkers. Gail is an incredible teammate—honest, dependable, hardworking, and always willing to help. She is a wonderful nurse, a role model, and someone who makes REACH a better place simply by being here.
Congratulations, Cheryl and Gail, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for all you do. Suzanne’s vision lives on through people like you, and we are incredibly grateful to have you as part of the REACH family.