A gift inspired by love and legacy.
A generous lead gift from Board Member Leigh Sewell is helping bring a vibrant new gathering space to life at The Virginia Home—one inspired by the remarkable life and spirit of her daughter, Taylor Bernard. Named Tay’s Place, the new Recreation Lounge and Adaptive Gaming Space at The Virginia Home’s new home in Hanover will create opportunities for residents, families, and friends to connect, relax, and enjoy time together. The space will feature cozy areas for reading, conversation, and Bible study, along with games such as billiards, foosball, and Rummikub. An adjoining adaptive gaming area will offer interactive experiences and virtual reality activities designed for people of all abilities.
In March 2026, Leigh Sewell found another meaningful way to celebrate Taylor’s creativity and support the project. She partnered with New York fashion designer, Jovanna Mullins, whose work features artwork created by people with disabilities, to develop a special collection inspired by Taylor’s original art. Several Virginia Home residents participated in a joyful photo shoot modeling the collection. With salon styling, music, dancing, and laughter throughout the day, the event became a celebration not only of fashion and creativity, but also of Taylor’s life and enduring impact on others.
This spring, Leigh also hosted a special trunk show in her home to benefit Tay’s Place. Guests gathered to view the collection, meet Jovanna, and learn more about the vision for the new space and its impact on future residents of The Virginia Home. We are deeply grateful to Leigh Sewell for her generosity, creativity, and commitment to helping create a place where residents will experience connection, inclusion, and joy for years to come
The Life and Spirit of Taylor Bernard — Always Rising
Taylor Bernard never allowed Cerebral Palsy to define her. Independent, creative, and determined, she approached life with energy and optimism that inspired everyone around her. An accomplished artist, equestrian, advocate, and graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, Taylor lived boldly and embraced every opportunity. At just 13 years old, she became the youngest certified primary handler for a service dog—one of many examples of her determination and perseverance.
To family and friends, Taylor was known for being resilient, compassionate, and endlessly resourceful. She especially loved hot air balloons, which became a fitting symbol of the way she lived—always rising, always reaching higher. Although Taylor passed away in July 2024, her spirit continues to inspire those who knew and loved her. Through Tay’s Place, her legacy will live on in a space designed to encourage friendship, recreation, independence, and possibility for every resident who gathers there
