Values Ambassador Spotlight: Abigail Castro

Nominated by: Sariyah Lewis   |    Value: Leadership

Consistency builds trust. In environments supporting children with neurodevelopmental differences, it’s critical that staff build relationships and rapport that make trust — and progress — possible.

In the G6 Group Home, Abigail Castro is a steady presence helping students and staff turn minuscule moments into new progress every day, knowing that the day-to-day consistency adds to a bigger picture over time.

“It’s their world, and we’re just living in it,” Abbi says. “Our kids need our help, but they’re capable of doing so much on their own if they’re given the chance.”

Abbi’s words of encouragement go a long way for our students, and she gives them the grace and space to achieve greater independence by figuring things out on their own, according to her nominator, Sariyah Lewis. For students and staff alike, Abbi’s relationship-building skills and work ethic help foster a community geared toward growth.

Her supervisor, Hailey Teter, says Abbi can find the positive in any given situation and is always willing to go the extra mile for our students, even helping sub in our Therapeutic School or in other group homes.

In the Heartspring Residential Program, staff help students navigate daily routines, like hygiene, leisure, household care contributions, and independent communication. For many of our students, Heartspring is their home away from home, and we want them to find success beyond the classroom.

“I try to be there and help any way I can,” Abbi says. “Some days are harder than others, but the transformations I’ve seen kids make mean we have to try and help them realize what’s possible.”

As a former public school district special education classroom para, Abbi says making the leap to become a full-time Heartspring direct support professional is the best thing she’s ever done.

At the school district, I felt like just a number, but here at Heartspring, I feel seen, valued, and appreciated. — Abbi Castro

Her passion for the work shines through in every interaction. Whether she’s helping a student master a new skill or supporting a teammate through a tough day, Abbi leads with empathy and determination.

“We’re all superheroes in disguise,” Abbi says. “We’re here for a purpose, and we all play a really important role.”

That sense of purpose drives Abbi to keep showing up with positivity and patience. It’s what makes her a role model for her peers and a source of stability for the students who look forward to seeing her every day.

I tell my kids I hope they wake up each day and do what they love. Your work should not feel like a job, but something that makes you happy and fulfilled. — Abbi Castro

Abbi’s leadership reminds us that Heartspring’s mission isn’t just about programs — it’s about people. Her ability to lead with grace and positivity creates an environment where students feel empowered and staff feel supported. Through her example, Abbi shows that leadership is not a title, but a daily choice to make a difference.

At Heartspring, we value excellence, celebration, leadership, service, possibility, and integrity. 

Our  Values Ambassadors put Heartspring’s mission into action — going above and beyond to empower children to realize their full potential, support families, and help young people build skills for life beyond our campus.