At just eight years old, Gabriella “Gabby” has already walked through more uncertainty than many experience in a lifetime.

Gabby lives with ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression — diagnoses that shape how she experiences the world. But they do not define her. What defines Gabby is her resilience, her bright spirit, and her deep desire to belong.

Two years ago, Gabby was placed in the temporary care of Liza and Rob B. after an unstable home environment made it impossible for her parents to care for her and her siblings. While her siblings were placed with other family members, Liza and Rob opened their hearts and home to Gabby. What began as temporary guardianship has grown into something permanent and beautiful — they are now in the process of officially adopting her.

But safety at home was only part of the journey.

Like many children with developmental and emotional challenges, Gabby struggled socially. At her afterschool program, she often felt different—out of place and unaccepted. For a child managing ADHD and anxiety, even small social setbacks can feel overwhelming. Moments of feeling judged or misunderstood can quietly reinforce the belief that you don’t belong.

Liza and Rob could see it in her mood when she came home.

Then their Monmouth County caseworker shared information about Rising Treetops at Oakhurst’s (RTO) afterschool program, noting that other families had positive experiences there. It was a hopeful step — but one taken with cautious optimism. When you’ve been hurt before, hope can feel fragile.

From the moment Gabby started at RTO, something shifted.

Liza and Rob noticed it first. She came home smiling. Lighter. Happier. There was an ease about her that hadn’t been there before. Curious about the change, they gently asked her what felt different.

Gabby’s answer was simple — and profound.

She told them she never felt like she belonged at other after-school programs. But at RTO, she feels welcome. No one judges her. No one makes fun of her.

For a child who has experienced instability, trauma, and the daily challenges of managing ADHD and anxiety, belonging is not a small thing. It is everything.

This is the power of support.

When children with developmental disabilities are surrounded by understanding adults, inclusive peers, and programs designed to meet them where they are, they thrive. When they are seen not as problems to manage but as children to nurture, their confidence grows. When they feel safe enough to be themselves, their joy returns.

For Liza and Rob, knowing Gabby feels accepted brings comfort beyond words. For Gabby, it means she can exhale. She can learn. She can connect. She can simply be a kid.

During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Gabby’s story reminds us that awareness is only the beginning. True impact comes from action — from building spaces where every child feels they belong.

Because sometimes the most powerful support isn’t complicated.

It’s making sure every child knows: You are welcome here.