06/02/2026
📣 As we start out our 3rd year, and with so many new followers, we thought it was time to do some reintroductions! If you're new here, you might be wondering, "Who is Fun & Friends for? What do you consider a disability?"
🤔 Those are great questions! We are an inclusive group that allows for families and individuals to self identify if our organization is right for them. We welcome those who have a physical disability, intellectual disability, or otherwise identify as having a disability and who are looking for an accessible and inclusive community. Generally, we would expect an individual to have an official diagnosis, which impacts their daily lives, and for them to personally identify themselves as having a disability.
📈 We see the greatest diversity in our birth-5 program, as no matter if your child has a physical disability, an intellectual disability or a genetic condition, those parents are all finding themselves navigating a “new normal” and all that comes with along with it, such as: insurances, enrolling into support programs, finding services, birth-to-three, initial IFSPs & IEPs, and more.
💛 As children and families grow, we expect that base group to diverge. There may be families and individuals who find themselves less in need of Fun & Friends and that's okay! We see a shift towards primarily intellectual disabilities in our Teen & Adult program, but we will always be here for those looking for a place to belong and have FUN in a safe space with a supportive community.
♿ We know the word "disability" doesn't resonate with everybody, and that's okay too! Preferred disability language is subjective, and varies from person to person. We, as an organization, choose to use the word “disability.” It is a neutral term that acknowledges the reality that some people may need specific accommodations to fully participate in life. It is an inclusive word that helps promote and affirm one's identity and helps those who identify as having a disability to connect with the broader community.
🔍 One way we advertise our inclusivity is through our logo itself. There you'll find symbols representing Down syndrome, Autism, and the Disability Pride Flag nestled in the "d" of "Friends."
