Melissa Anderson Donahue
Melissa Anderson Donahue was a force of nature. She came to work for MAB Community Services’ Adult Disability Services division in 2006, when she was in her early 20s. Melissa loved people, and she loved doing everything she could to make sure that people with disabilities enjoyed full and satisfying lives. Melissa got noticed quickly and rose fast. After working at MAB for two years, Melissa became a Program Support Director managing five community-based homes, and in 2017 she was promoted to Director of Residential Services.
Life is sometimes unfair. Melissa died way too soon. Many of us who were touched by Melissa wanted to do something to honor her and add to her legacy in a way that would be meaningful to her. Melissa started out at MAB as the Residential Coordinator of a community-based home in Newton, which has been totally renovated into a wonderful home for people with intellectual disabilities. On Sunday, September 24, 2023, Melissa’s friends, family members, and coworkers planted a flower garden in her memory at the community-based home in Newton. Melissa’s Garden brings joy to the participants who live there, the staff who support them, visiting family members, and everyone passing by. This brings magic and joy to life, just like Melissa. Every year, on or around Melissa’s April 20th birthday, the Melissa Anderson Donahue Fund Committee of family, friends, and colleagues will donate to and plant a flower garden at another MAB community-based home. Eventually, all 30 homes will have beautiful gardens in Melissa’s honor, extending her life and spirit forever.
Read more: https://caughtinsouthie.com/features/show-some-love-for-melissas-garden-2024/