United Abilities

Our brother, Paul, has Down syndrome and has lived in a group home for the last decade with others who have disabilities like his. Before Covid, his housing program provided the residents with activities that fostered friendship and community. However, during Covid, these activities had to be taken away for health reasons. Upon further research, we realized that activities are not being provided in many private or state housing programs, or never have been. These activities are crucial to the mental health of persons with intellectual disabilities as they often are unable to plan their own outings or time with friends. And, they are frequently unable to advocate for their mental health in the same ways that the average adult is, meaning that the mental health of this demographic is inexcusably neglected. As we watched our brother become increasingly isolated and reclusive, we knew we had to do something. That is why we founded United Abilities: to fill this gap in the healthcare system that is completely ignored, and reintegrate and maintain socialization among the intellectually impaired community. Activities through United Abilities are entirely free for housing programs, residents, and their families because we believe that happiness shouldn't come at a cost.