November 28th, 2025
By: Rachel Pothier, Marketing & Support Coordinator
Growing Up in Italy
Anna grew up in southern Italy, where life on her family’s small farm taught her the meaning of hard work, kindness, and looking out for others. Her parents believed deeply in treating everyone with respect—no matter their background or abilities—and those values quickly became part of who Anna was.
One childhood memory has stayed with her ever since. In elementary school, during recess one day, Anna noticed a new girl sitting by herself in a wheelchair, quietly enjoying the sunshine while other children passed by without stopping. Something about that didn’t feel right to Anna, so she walked over and gently said hello. The girl looked up and greeted her with the biggest, brightest smile. She didn’t speak, but that didn’t stop the conversation from unfolding. Anna quickly realized that the girl communicated in her own way—through gestures, facial expressions, and small cues that said more than words ever could. So, Anna adapted, listened closely, and the two found their own special way to connect.
“She became my friend. Every day during recess, I made sure to sit with her and keep her company. I wanted the other children to see that it was not fair—or kind—to avoid someone simply because they were different. One afternoon, she and her mother came to my house with gifts and candy. Her mother wanted to express how grateful she was that I had become her daughter’s friend. I was overwhelmed; I had not realized until that moment the impact companionship and kindness could have. It was then I knew that when I grew up, I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and be a voice for those who needed one.”
Anna McLaughlin
From Italy to the United States
When Anna moved to the United States in 1994, she found herself navigating a new country, a new culture, and a new way of life. Amid all the changes, one constant was the close relationship she formed with her cousin, who had physical and developmental disabilities. Caring for him brought Anna a deep sense of purpose. As his personal care assistant for several years, she learned far more than the practical aspects of daily support—she learned patience, how to listen beyond words, and how to advocate for someone who relied heavily on others. These experiences strengthened her natural empathy and reaffirmed the values her parents had instilled in her back in Italy.
Her cousin’s service coordinator quickly noticed Anna’s compassion and natural skill. Through this connection, Anna met several families who were seeking reliable, heartfelt support for their loved ones. She soon became a trusted figure in their homes, offering not only hands-on care but also a sense of reassurance during times that could often feel overwhelming. Families appreciated her warm personality, her willingness to adapt, and the comfort she brought into their daily routines. With each new connection, Anna’s passion for helping individuals with disabilities grew deeper and more meaningful.
One family, especially moved by her dedication, saw potential in Anna that she had not yet considered for herself. They encouraged her to apply for a one-on-one support position at EMARC—now known as Communitas. Their confidence in her abilities stayed with her, and she decided to take the leap. That decision, made over 13 years ago, would become a defining moment in her career.
Since joining the organization, Anna has invested her heart, time, and skills into empowering the people she supports. What began as a single one-on-one role evolved into a lifelong commitment—and a career through which she continues to touch countless lives with her warmth, patience, and unwavering belief in the value of every individual.
A Woman with Many Hats
Over her 13 years with the organization, Anna has had the privilege of growing and evolving through a variety of roles, each offering new challenges and opportunities to make a meaningful impact. She began as a Mentor, building one-on-one relationships with participants and learning the nuances of individualized support. From there, she advanced to Lead Instructor, guiding teams and creating curriculum that encouraged growth, creative expression, inclusion, and personal development.
Anna’s dedication and skill naturally led her to the role of Case Manager, where she supported families, coordinated services, and ensured each participant received the care and attention they needed. Her ability to lead with both compassion and vision then opened the door to the position of Associate Director, giving her the opportunity to shape programs, mentor staff, and strengthen the organization’s mission. As then Woburn Day Director, Anna gained extensive experience in operational management, administration, and strategic leadership at the Woburn program, consistently maintaining exemplary standards of care. Recently promoted to Director of Day Services, over all day programs, Anna intends to continue expanding services, strengthening family and community partnerships, enhancing staff development, and leading with dedication, compassion, and a clear vision for the future.
Throughout her career, Anna has approached every role with the same values she learned as a child: respect, empathy, and a steadfast belief in the potential of every person. Her journey through these positions reflects not only professional growth but a deep, ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive community for all.
“Anna-Banana”
When asked to share one of her favorite memories at Communitas, Anna smiled and said, “Oh, I have so many!” She reflected on some of her earliest experiences with participants who were just joining the program. Many were timid or shy at first, holding back their personalities and unsure of how to connect. What makes these memories especially meaningful to Anna is not the first day itself, but everything that happened in between then and now—the personal growth, newfound confidence, and self-expression that each individual has achieved over time. Watching that transformation unfold has been a source of deep pride and joy for her.
Another memory that stands out for Anna took place during the 2020 pandemic, when in-person day programs were forced to shut down and pivot to virtual learning. Anna embraced this challenge by creating weekly “Music & Movement” classes over Zoom, designing activities and exercises that could be enjoyed by everyone, no matter their abilities or limitations. Despite the new format, she found immense joy in continuing her mission to make a positive impact. “Even if it looked and felt different,” Anna said, “I was still able to engage with my people, bring smiles to their faces, and make a difference in their day.”
These memories, spanning both quiet beginnings and unprecedented challenges, reflect Anna’s unwavering dedication to fostering connection, growth, and happiness for the people she serves.
Communitas – Supporting Growth, Connection, and Possibilities for Everyone
Anna’s journey—from growing up on a small farm in southern Italy to becoming the Director of Day Services—reflects a lifelong dedication to compassion, inclusion, and meaningful connection. Her warmth, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people she supports have touched countless lives and inspired everyone around her. We are thrilled to celebrate Anna on her well-deserved promotion and congratulate her on this next chapter of her remarkable career. Her story is a testament to the difference one person can make when they lead with heart, empathy, and purpose.
