Celebrating 20 Years of Dedication
Celebrating 20 Years of Dedication: Jack’s Journey at Bishop Grady Villas
For the past 20 years, Jack has been a pillar of strength, compassion, and dedication at Magnify’s Bishop Grady Villas. His story is one of steadfast commitment, rooted in family values, shaped by experience, and fueled by a belief in the incredible potential of every person he serves.
Jack’s journey with Bishop Grady Villas began unexpectedly, thanks to a tip from someone very close to him—his sister. “I used to work in a behavioral home back up north in Boston before we moved to Florida in 2004,” Jack recalls. “My sister happened to come across Bishop Grady Villas online and told me about it. I applied, and Sister Elizabeth was actually one of the people who hired me. The rest was history.”
Starting as a Resident Advisor, Jack took on the vital role of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, primarily working overnight shifts. Over the years, he has witnessed many changes, but one thing has always remained the same: the uniqueness of each resident.
“One common misconception is that people in this community are somehow all the same,” Jack shares. “But once you work with them, you quickly realize how different and special each individual really is. No two people are alike, and that’s one of my favorite things about working here.”
Jack embodies the heart of Magnify’s mission—to magnify the God-given gifts of people with disabilities. “The Magnify mission is special to me because it shines light on individuals with disabilities and how, even though they may have a disability, it doesn’t stop them from doing great things,” he says.
Throughout his 20-year career, Jack has supported residents as they set goals, gain independence, and achieve milestones big and small. Whether encouraging someone to take their first steps toward living independently or celebrating a resident’s personal success, Jack’s compassionate presence has made a lasting difference.
His dedication to the residents is deeply connected to his own upbringing and values. Jack, the youngest of ten siblings, has family roots traced back to the Cape Verde Islands off the West Coast of Africa. Growing up in a large, close-knit Catholic family, Jack learned the importance of faith, community, and service early on. Some of his fondest memories involve attending church on Christmas Eve surrounded by his extended family.
Jack cherishes time spent with his energetic sons, siblings, and beloved parents outside of work. Whether playing basketball with friends or relaxing at home, Jack finds joy in the simple moments and the connections that matter most.
As Bishop Grady Villas celebrates Jack’s 20-year milestone, we honor not just the years of service but the heart and humanity he brings to our community every single day. Jack’s journey is a powerful reminder that true impact comes from seeing each person’s potential and believing in their ability to thrive.
Thank you, Jack, for 20 incredible years. Your commitment has helped shape countless lives, and your legacy continues to inspire us all.
