We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mary Angelini. Check out our conversation below.
Mary, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
People think we are a coffee shop
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Mary Angelini, co-founder and Executive Director of Gabi’s: Powered by Special Abilities, a Raleigh-based nonprofit employing adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. We provide kitting, packaging, and fulfillment services for corporate clients like Peter Millar and Cencora while creating meaningful jobs and independence for our team. Inspired by my daughter Gabi’s struggle to find employment, we’ve built a $500,000 social enterprise that proves ability matters more than disability.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I wouldn’t call it powerful, but it was the moment I realized I could make a difference. As a teenager, I had the opportunity to go door to door collecting donations for nonprofits that had reached out to my parents. At the time, I raised what felt like a lot of money, and it showed me that even my small efforts could help people in meaningful ways.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me lessons that success never could.
When doors kept closing for Gabi after high school, it was painful to watch her face rejection again and again — not because of her abilities, but because of a system that couldn’t see them. That season of struggle revealed something success never would have: the depth of resilience, the importance of inclusion, and the urgency of creating opportunities where none exist.
Success may prove what’s possible, but suffering is what taught me to fight for change. It gave me the conviction to build Gabi’s — so no other family would have to feel that same helplessness, and so every adult with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities could find meaningful work and belonging.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
The project I’m devoted to is building Gabi’s into a model for inclusive employment that changes perceptions and transforms communities — for as long as it takes.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I’ve learned is that meaningful work is more than a paycheck — it’s dignity, confidence, and belonging. Most people overlook how transformative employment can be for someone who’s been told “no” their whole life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.poweredbygabis.org
- Instagram: Gabisraleigh
- Linkedin: gabi’s – powered by special abilities
- Facebook: Gabi’s Powered by Special Abilities
- Youtube: Gabi’s Poweredbyspecialabilities
Image Credits
HMN PHOTOGRAPHY
