March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and we’re highlighting some of the amazing people we support! Read more to learn about Chris’ story and how you can make a difference for individuals with developmental disabilities this month.
Meet Chris
Chris is supported by AbleLight at one of our residential community living programs in Colorado. When Chris was only two years old, a near-drowning accident impacted his life and caused him to be in a wheelchair. Through many months of rehabilitation, he defied the odds and learned to eat, communicate, and navigate the world around him.
He has overcome many challenges in his life, including adapting to using an iPad to speak. This allows him to communicate with friends, family, and others in his life.
Today, Chris is thriving! Every summer, he looks forward to attending the AbleLight Mountain Builders Camp in Colorado. At camp last year, Chris was able to go ziplining, horseback riding, fishing, and much more. He’s made many life-long memories and friends at camp, including Aaron and Hannah.
For Aaron and Hannah, Chris’ presence in their lives has been an incredible experience. His positive attitude and optimism has taught them valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and friendship.
Keith Jones, AbleLight CEO, had the opportunity to attend camp last summer and he was also positively impacted by meeting Chris. “He’s one of the most charismatic, charming young men I’ve ever met,” Keith said.
Chris has lived his life defying the odds and today, he’s flourishing. When looking for the support he needed to live more independently, he chose AbleLight because we believe that supporting the goals, hopes, and dreams of the people we serve allows them to truly thrive.
Hear more from Chris below!
Get involved!
- All month long, AbleLight is participating in a Grant Match Challenge. If we can reach our goal of raising $50,000, an additional $50,000 will be unlocked to help fund life-changing programs for people with disabilities. Together, we can create more opportunities that enrich the lives of the people we serve! Donate today to help us reach our goal!
- You can participate in Wear Orange Wednesdays all month long! Orange is a symbol of hope, understanding, and inclusivity, and it represents the vibrant diversity of the I/DD community.
- Round Up: When you shop at an AbleLight Thrift Shop and round up your purchase to the next dollar, you’re making a direct impact for the people we support. Stop by soon!