FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2026

Barnabas Foundation Names Gabrielle Martin to Lead Strategic Partnerships and Events

Springfield, MO —The Barnabas Foundation today announced the appointment of Gabrielle “Gabe”

Martin as Director of Strategic Partnerships and Events. In this role, Martin will lead strategic

partnership development and the planning of mission-driven events that connect communities to the

Foundation’s work to change lives through disability ministry.

Martin brings a background spanning hospitality, nonprofit leadership, and brand development. She

spent nearly a decade at Hickory Hills Country Club, leading membership marketing and reshaping

the club’s social landscape through innovative, experience-driven events. Later, she served as the

Executive Director of the Burrell Foundation, where she revitalized the organization after a period of

dormancy and expanded access to community mental health resources across the Midwest. Most

recently, she worked with Ingram Enterprises on brand and customer engagement within the

pyrotechnic entertainment industry.

“This role marks a meaningful return to the nonprofit space for me, rooted in purpose and real

human impact,” Martin said. “At its core, this work is about belonging—creating space where

individuals with disabilities and chronic illness feel seen, valued, and celebrated. My focus is to build

meaningful bridges—connecting our local community and others across the country to a mission that

creates access, opportunity, and life-changing independence. I’m honored to deepen those

connections through partnerships and experiences that bring people closer to the mission and

expand its impact.”

Martin’s earlier roles included marketing and development with Southern Supply Companies and the

National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Her involvement in the Springfield community has included work

with the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks, Springfield Little Theatre, Springfield Catholic

Schools, and Friends of the Garden. Martin now returns to the nonprofit space, where she will focus

on cultivating partnerships and experiences that deepen community connection locally and across

the country to a mission centered on belonging, access, and opportunity for individuals with

disabilities and chronic illness. 

About the Barnabas Foundation

The Barnabas Foundation transforms lives through disability ministry by fostering inclusion,

independence, and personal growth. Through Camp Barnabas, individuals with disabilities and

chronic illnesses experience a life-changing, fully accessible week of adventure where they are

celebrated, build confidence, and form lifelong friendships. Barnabas Prep extends this impact by

equipping young adults with disabilities through life skills, biblical education, and vocational 

 training in a collegiate-type experience that prepares students for greater independence and purpose.