FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2025

Silver Spring, MD — Critical services for low-income families, people with disabilities, and military veterans and their families received a big boost in support last night. Advocates for Easterseals DC MD VA came together to raise over $900,000 – a record-breaking amount for the organization.

Easterseals honored some notable figures during the gala, which took place at Union Station. Among them was Dave Hoppe, the only person to have served as Chief of Staff to both the Senate Majority Leader and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. That Speaker was Rep. Paul Ryan, who was on hand to present the award to Hoppe for his years of work to support people with disabilities.

Ryan applauded Hoppe for working across the aisle with a policy acumen “that has also made Dave a tremendous advocate for people with developmental delays.”

Dave Hoppe (right) is shown with former House Speaker Paul Ryan (center) and Hoppe’s son Greg (left).

The law firm Greenberg Traurig received the Corporate Partner Award. Easterseals recognized the firm for its commitment to creating an equitable society and its support of Easterseals’ Head Start program and Veteran Staffing Network.

Also honored were General James J. Mingus, the 39th Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, and his wife Amy Mingus, who are noted advocates of mental health for members of the armed services. U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins also spoke, urging attendees to support efforts at reducing veteran suicide. On average, 17 veterans every day die by suicide. Easterseals’ Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic offers support to military families coping with their mental health.

Funds raised during the gala will support all Easterseals programs in early education, health, and employment.

Missed the 2025 Advocacy Awards? Watch it here.

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Easterseals DC MD VA – Easterseals is leading the way to full equity, inclusion, and access through direct and life-changing disability and community services. Since 1945, Easterseals DC MD VA has worked tirelessly to enhance quality of life and expand access to healthcare, education, and employment. And we won’t rest until each one of us is valued, respected, and accepted. Join us: www.eseal.org. Including Individuals. Empowering Families. Strengthening Communities.℠

Contact: Paula Moore, Vice President of Communications & Marketing, pmoore@eseal.org