Celebrating a Decade of Impact: CAA’s 10th Anniversary Achievement Ceremony

On June 21, 2025, the Center for All Abilities (CAA) proudly celebrated 10 years of community, creativity, and belonging with a vibrant and heartfelt Achievement Ceremony. This year's Achievement Ceremony was especially meaningful because it was a month-long storytelling campaign and fundraiser in celebration of CAA’s 10th birthday. Throughout June, we:

  • Raised funds to support CAA’s growing programs

  • Shared powerful stories of transformation

  • Welcomed new supporters into our mission

The ceremony featured:

  • A heartfelt Founder's Speech

  • Moving performances by participants and staff

  • An art showcase by longtime CAA artist Yu (Caleb) Chen

  • Mystery Boxes full of handcrafted surprises for donors

  • Limited-edition CAA merchandise and gifts

Guests enjoyed delicious food catered by our Blue Hat vocational program, explored handcrafted items at our merchandise table, made donations at our community giving station, and connected with familiar faces and new friends alike.

It was a moment to celebrate not just accomplishments, but the relationships, resilience, and creativity that make CAA so special. This milestone event brought together participants, families, volunteers, and community partners to reflect on a decade of growth—and to celebrate every individual who has been a part of our journey.

A highlight of the day was the debut of our commemorative video, which featured voices from across the CAA community—past and present. These heartfelt reflections captured stories of transformation, creative expression, and belonging. It was a tribute to the many individuals who have shaped CAA over the past ten years.

This year’s ceremony was also a bittersweet farewell to Joanna Tan Cho, CAA’s former Executive Director and longtime staff member. Joanna first joined CAA in 2019 as a music therapist, working just two hours a week. Her dedication, vision, and deep love for the community quickly made her a foundational leader. She became CAA’s first successor to our founder Phoebe, and has since guided the organization with compassion and strength.

Now living in Texas with her husband and son, Joanna is beginning a new chapter—one filled with continued purpose, love, and advocacy. We are forever grateful for her years of service and leadership. Joanna, you will always be part of the CAA family.

Looking Ahead: The Next Ten Years

This celebration reminded us that our strength lies in our community. From pop-up cafes and therapy residencies to movement programs and mentorship circles, we’ve witnessed again and again how creativity and connection can change lives.

As we step into our next decade, we’re expanding our reach and deepening our roots—with new staff, new programs, and renewed energy. We’re building a future where youth of all abilities are confident in who they are, supported in their growth, and embraced by a loving community.

🎉 Thank you for being part of our first ten years.
💛 Help us build the next ten—make a gift, share our story, or join a program today.

Get Involved! If you’re passionate about fostering creativity and community, consider joining us at CAA! Whether as a volunteer, supporter, or participant, there are countless ways to make a difference. Learn more about how you can get involved today! Email us at info@allabilities.org 

#CAA10Years #TENAnniversary #AllAbilitiesThrive #CAACommunity

Joanna Tan