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Uniquely You Magazine

Magazine for the disability community in Indiana. https://linktr.ee/uniquelyyouindiana
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11/14/2024

Sponsor Spotlight: LifeCourseConnect
A Place to Learn, Plan, and Schedule with the Focus on You!

“It’s wonderful to have a community that speaks my language and has tools that keep us all on the same page!” - Lexi Westerfield.

Using LifeCourseConnect has opened many doors for Lexi Westerfield. As a blind and autistic selfadvocate who is also a wheelchair user, Lexi works with The Arc of Indiana, Self-Advocates of Indiana, and as a LifeCourse Ambassador with Charting the LifeCourse. Lexi has to not only manage these various roles but also her day-to-day interests, plans and goals She found that LifeCourseConnect was just the program she needed to organize her schedule, plans, and ideas.

What is LifeCourseConnect?

Available to people on the FSW or CIH waivers as well as a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) service in Indiana, LifeCourseConnect (LCC) is a person-centered planning program that puts YOU in the driver’s seat LCC gives participants access to two new tools, LifeCourseOnline and Quillo Connect where members create a vision for the life they want and build a plan to get started. Both are available on a smartphone, tablet, and/or desktop

LifeCourseOnline (LCO) is a digital space to plan, connect, and take action on the goals you set for

yourself or your family. LCO helps users answer questions about what they want for their future, invite others to join, coordinate schedules, create and track goals, and more, all in a secure online space. Built around the Charting the LifeCourse framework, LCO users are able to:

• Map out their vision for a good life

• Think about what they want for their life - and what they don’t want

• Invite a support team to join them in their day-to-day as well as long-term planning

• Update and share a calendar with events linked to goals and support people, as needed

• Make their person-centered plan dynamic and able to be updated throughout the year

• and so much more!

For those moments in between, there is Quillo Connect, using short videos to share information, resources, ideas, connection, and inspiration with users Viewers can learn more about selfadvocacy, communication skills, tips for getting ready for a job interview, and more. Quillo users enjoy using the app to:

• Explore the Quillo video library, including nearly 2,000 one-minute videos featuring stories and experiences from self-advocates, family members, professionals, state leaders, and more.

• Invite trusted people to join their private Circle of Support to share personalized videos.

• Set their own Favorites Playlists to return to videos later.

• and so much more!

Lexi has found that these tools have had a positive impact on how she is thinking about and planning for the future. Using the video-sharing features on Quillo Connect and the collaborative planning and scheduling tools on LCO, Lexi is also equipped to share her goals and plans with others.

“I feel like my approach to planning has really changed since I started using LifeCourseConnect I feel like my ideas are just more thought out, and I can plan them a lot more efficiently and communicate them a lot more efficiently since I started using LifeCourseConnect ”

Getting support along the way:

“You Don’t Go it Alone”

Living in northwest Indiana with her mom and two cats, Lexi shared, “LifeCourseConnect helps me just organize things and have them all in one place, organized and easy to have laid out and mapped and planned ” She joined Indiana LifeCourseConnect through The Arc of Indiana’s Advocacy Leadership Network, and will continue to use the tools after that program ends.

In addition to access to Quillo Connect and LCO, users can make the most of other program features, including personalized sessions with planning assistants and making connections through regular online community sessions. After signing up for Indiana LCC, you will receive one-on-one support to help set up your LCO and Quillo Connect accounts Virtual one-on-one meetings with LCC staff and optional monthly drop-in sessions provide participants with the chance to ask questions, take the tools further, and connect with others in the program.

Lexi has loved taking advantage of these additional program supports. “My favorite part of LifeCourseConnect is that you don’t go it alone. You get one-on-one sessions at least a couple of times, depending on what program you’re in to help build your LifeCourseOnline portfolio, or get any other assistance you need, as well as the LifeCourseConnect Community Chats, which is a great way to meet your community of people who use LifeCourseConnect ”

At the end of the day, LifeCourseConnect helps tackle the tough questions, opens new opportunities, and builds a real plan with real choices.

It’s more than a checklist - it’s an ongoing conversation.

LifeCourseConnect is not about filling out a form that sits on a shelf to collect dust all year. The tools are an opportunity to picture a future you want and help prompt the important conversations that so often are missed in developing a good life Together, LCO and Quillo Connect provide a way for users to think big without the risk of being overwhelmed. Update your goals in LCO throughout the year or when life changes occur. Share encouraging messages with others in your Quillo Connect Circle, and use the video library to inspire new goals and plans on your LCO

Is LCC a good fit for me or my loved one?

Are you new to the waiver and not sure where to start? Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? LifeCourseConnect (LCC) is a great tool to help people get started with a plan! While everybody is welcome and encouraged to try it, we’ve found that LCC is a great fit for: • People who are new to their waiver services • Folks who are waiting for a provider • Individuals and their case managers who are searching for a provider They can work together to help pinpoint the types of things someone might want, like, or need. This could help clarify or speed up the provider search!

If an individual on the waiver isn’t old enough to use apps or isn’t regularly using technology themselves, it’s a great resource for caregivers and family members to use on their behalf.

How do I sign up to get started?

If you would like to follow Lexi’s lead and join LCC, we are excited to help you get started Indiana LCC is available through FCAR (Family Caregiver and Training) to people on the FSW and CIH waivers as well as through Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Sign up through Indiana LifeCourseConnect www. LifeCourseConnect com/Indiana, and the LCC team will help you work with your case manager to get this oneyear subscription added to your FCAR budget. There is no out-ofpocket cost for participants.

If you would like to start exploring LifeCourseConnect, please reach out! Call us at (317) 626-4387, email [email protected], or visit https://lifecourseconnect com/ Indiana to get started. It all starts with one step.

“It’s wonderful to have a community that speaks my language and has tools that keep us all on the same page!” - Lexi Westerfield.

11/14/2024

Find Encouragement and Connection! 💬
I’m excited to share my recent conversation on Empowered by Hope with Charlotte's Hope Foundation. In this episode, we dive into the story behind Uniquely You Magazine, a magazine built to empower and uplift families with special needs across Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. My hope is that this podcast inspires you to connect, share, and know that we are all in this together.

🎧 Tune in and share with friends: https://charlotteshopefoundation.org/2024/11/66-from-isolation-to-empowerment-jamie-olsons-journey-in-building-a-special-needs-community-through-uniquely-you-magazine/

Jamie Olson, publisher of "Uniquely You Magazine," joins us to share her transformative journey from isolation to empowerment. Her story begins with her raising her 12-year-old son with autism, epilepsy, and nonverbal communication, and her relentless quest to find community and resources. Dive into...

11/12/2024

The Adoption Journey
BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

Andrea Mae of Muncie, Indiana, is an extraordinary woman whose story is a testament to the fact that families come in all shapes, sizes, and abilities As we celebrate World Adoption Month, Andrea’s journey through adoption, parenthood, and ultimately divorce, serves as a powerful narrative of love, strength, and new beginnings

Andrea’s journey into motherhood began with the adoption of her oldest daughter, Abigail. At the time, Andrea and her husband decided to adopt their first child after several years of trying to get pregnant They later adopted Shilo when Abigail was 3 Both were born with exceptional needs.

Andrea knew she wanted to adopt children as long as she could remember, “I’ve always been interested in adoption, especially kids with disabilities because they were less likely to be adopted and more likely to be abused in the foster care system.”

Abigail was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 when she was 9 months old. This led to having a tumor removed from her leg She also has a tumor in her optic nerve that is monitored but has never needed any sort of treatment According to the Mayo Clinic website neurofibromatosis type 1, also known as NF1, is a genetic disorder that can cause skin pigment changes and tumors in the nervous system NF1 is also linked to learning disorders, ADHD, and speech delays

Shilo, who was adopted through the National Down Syndrome Adoption Network, was born with heart defects, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism, all of which are associated with Down syndrome. She had her first heart surgery shortly after birth and her second at 3 months old after contracting a virus She is g-tube fed and uses a wheelchair to get around.

Then came Asher, Andrea’s biological child, who was born 10 years into her marriage. Andrea developed preeclampsia during her pregnancy, and Asher was born at 36 weeks, weighing 3 pounds 13 ounces He had a string of birth defects, including congenital scoliosis and a tethered spinal cord. Recently he had a brain tumor removed from his cerebellum. “His tumor didn’t metastasize,” said Andrea “The surgery was curative with no chemo or radiation needed.”

Spring break, March of 2021 Hiking trip to Sarasota
Despite his health challenges, Asher was the perfect little addition to their family However, Andrea’s marriage took an unexpected turn that led to divorce after 16 years of marriage. “It’s been a struggle as a single parent now balancing appointments and a job, but I think we’re getting there most days,” she said

Andrea has found strength in her children, who have distinct personalities.

Abigail, 16, is a kind and funny teen who believes in fighting the injustices of the world She also loves horror movies and wants to be a forensic scientist. Shilo, 12, is a spicy pr***en who has a smile that brightens up the room. Asher, 9, is a fierce protector of those he loves, especially his sister Shilo. He loves coding and gaming and wants to be a video game creator when he grows up.

Andrea’s faith has also strengthened since the divorce and her church family at Urban Light Community Church has been a huge support in her life She serves on the church board and is involved in special education and disability advocacy Part of her advocacy included co-authoring a book with Jody Michele and Pastor Andrew T. Draper entitled “Disabling Leadership: A Practical Theology of the Broken Body of Christ ”

Andrea has been working as a special education instructional aide, but after she graduates from Ball State University in December, she will be an intensive intervention special education teacher We asked her a few pertinent questions about adoption

1.) How has adoption changed you as aperson andasa parent?

It has pushed me to really think about what being selfless means Pushing my feelings aside and not making it about me Parenting [these children] made me realize how important biological connections to our families are. It’s the natural order of things and what we need

2 ) What strategies have you found effective in helping your adopted children feel secureand loved?

I think that’s one of the biggest things about adoption. You have to go into it knowing that love doesn’t fix things Adoption is trauma because they don’t get to experience being raised by their family. You have to sit in their pain It’s painful because it’s not the way the world is supposed to work. We’ve been intentional by reading books by adoptees, joining adoptee Facebook groups,

approaching it from the source. Abigail wants to learn more about the civil rights movement. I will probably find books by black writers because it makes it more personal for her. I think that’s important

3.) What do you wish more people understood aboutadoption?

4 ) If you could dispel one myth about adoption, what woulditbe?

5.) How do you plan to continue supporting adoption awareness and advocacy in your community?

When people come up to me and ask about adoption, I try to be a bit raw and honest. I let them know it’s not an easy path, especially if you go into it just because you want to be a parent. I share books that have important information from birth moms I share more of the hard things now about adoption in general because that wasn’t readily available when we went through the adoption process For instance, I focus more on how to walk through adopted children’s trauma with them

Andrea Mae of Muncie, Indiana, is an extraordinary woman whose story is a testament to the fact that families come in all shapes, sizes, and abilities.

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

11/11/2024

Nonprofit Spotlight: A Kid Again
Making memories

BY SUSAN GRAHAM

Serving over 1,000 Hoosier families, the Indiana chapter of A Kid Again provides free, year-round adventures for families who have a child with a life-threatening condition Brooke Gee, the Program Coordinator, loves meeting new families and highlighted that “The entire family is part of A Kid Again Siblings get to do the same things as the child who qualifies because they feel the effects of life-threatening conditions too We want families to come and have fun together ” A Kid Again’s primary goal is to “give illness a time out.”

A Kid Again Indiana generally plans 4 adventures a year, such as Dream Night at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, Pajama Night at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, a King’s Island Day, and a Holiday Adventure! They thoughtfully plan each Adventure to be accessible and fun for all ages. Adventures generally include multiple activities ranging from woodworking to dance parties to snacks, or meeting special guests One year, the guest of honor was a 7-foot python named Banana!

Raising a child with a lifethreatening illness can be expensive, which is why Adventures are designed to be relaxing and cost-free The King’s Island Day includes tickets for the entire family, food, drink vouchers, and a special A Kid Again-only access area with ice cream and Peanuts characters! This Adventure incorporates the Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky chapters, connecting families around the Midwest. Parents swap tips and kids have spontaneous wheelchair races while they wait in line.

It’s such a popular event that this year, King’s Island offered a choice of two days to make sure everyone has a great time! The Saturday event will include all the regular park rides but will have extra thrilling hours for the older kids who enjoy Halloween spooks Sunday will be for those who prefer to keep their thrills limited to amusement park rides.

Attending Adventures not only provides memories for families but also community Kids with lifethreatening conditions are often one in a million, making it difficult to find other families who can relate. A Kid Again Adventures are a connection point for parents, kids, and siblings. Stephanie Greenwald, who participates in the Indiana chapter, observed “The Adventures organized by A Kid Again have been transformational for our family. Not only do we get to escape the daily grind of medical appointments and treatments, but we also get to meet other families who truly understand our journey It’s like finding a second family that we never knew we needed ”

Heros

Christmas 2023
Children who use wheelchairs and attend traditional school don’t usually have other wheelchair-using peers to play with. A Kid Again Adventures provides space for them to play with similarly abled peers Watching eight-year-olds connect over cool crutches or uniquely decorated wheelchairs is an amazing experience for both parents and volunteers Last year, a group of elementary schoolage wheelchair users convinced volunteers to dismantle one of the balloon sculptures so they could play “keepy-uppy ” There were balloons and giggles everywhere.

The Holiday Adventure is another A Kid Again favorite While the location changes yearly, families can always count on a memorable day Last year, special guests Mr and Mrs. Claus were joined by The Grinch and almost all of the Disney Princesses. While legendary guests are fun, the Holiday Adventure also includes activities, food, and presents! Children who attend the event love the gift room where they get to pick out an early holiday present, just for them. Because of A Kid Again’s philosophy that illness affects the entire family, siblings are never left out and also get to pick out a special treat.

Kenny and Ella Comer
Each year, dozens of volunteers staff the Adventures so Indiana families can take pictures, laugh, and make memories These volunteers are often connected to the sponsor. Sponsor employees dress up, plan games, and add their flare to the adventure. However, they aren’t the

only ones who get to have fun. Greek alumni organizations love to volunteer as well as individuals and not-for-profit groups. If you belong to an organization that would like to volunteer, A Kid Again is always looking for groups that want to join in the fun

Josie Richardson
Families interested in being a part of A Kid Again can apply on their website at akidagain org There’s still time to sign up for the Holiday Adventure! Events are held around Indiana so families don’t always have to drive long distances to participate and sign-ups happen a month in advance, giving plenty of time to plan.

BY SUSAN GRAHAM

11/08/2024

We were honored to be able to speak on the Quillo Podcast check out their most recent episode where they interviewed the founder of Uniquely You Magazine Jamie Olson!!

In this week's episode, John and Cynthia are joined by Jamie Olson from Uniquely You! They discuss the importance of community, sharing diverse stories from the disability community, and how LifeCourseConnect can assist families in planning for the future.

Past issues
https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy

Linktr.ee to view past issues and share a story
https://linktr.ee/uniquelyyouindiana

Support groups
https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy/docs/december_2021-special_needs_living/s/14014143

Want to share stories with us? Email us at [email protected]
To learn more about Quillo Connect visit MyQuillo.com

Podcast Episode · Quillo Pod · 11/07/2024 · 34m

11/08/2024

We are looking for a location to host our new year’s bash for the disability & special needs community on Jan on the 25th, 26th or Feb 1st from 2-5pm. The Best of All band with GiGi’s playhouse will be performing along with ∞ Infinity. We will be hosting a talent / variety show also during this event. Here is the link to register to preform at our event.
https://form.jotform.com/242916312893158

If you can think of a location that would be open to hosting please tag them below or reach out to us.

Please click the link to complete this form.

11/07/2024

Meet the Curtis Family
By Lindsey Watson

Photos by 21 vines Photography

Meet the Curtis family, a mom and sons trio with a triple threat in faith, advocacy, and community involvement Zenobia, a strong and loving mother, raised her now-grown boys, Zachary, 28 and Nicholas, 26, in Fishers after moving from Michigan in 2005 for their father’s job.

Zach was diagnosed with autism at age 2 when the family still lived in Michigan He started to receive early intervention a few months after diagnosis and also began sensory integration and speech therapies. At that time, brother Nick was only 2 months old.

Zenobia was broken-hearted and terrified but knew she had to learn everything she could about the disorder and advocate for her son. She was told Zach would never talk For a period of time, he was nonverbal but did end up speaking again She relied heavily on her faith to get her through those hard moments.

When the family first moved here, Zenobia worked as an instructional assistant for Hamilton Southeastern schools, where she said her experience was invaluable and which gave her an education in many disabilities and diagnoses. For the past 13 years, she has been a financial aid counselor for Indiana Wesleyan University. And prior to moving to Fishers, she spent 20 years working as a flight attendant.

During her sons’ childhood, the family enjoyed a special tradition they called “Pow Wows” where they would spread out a blanket on the floor and enjoy dinner, popcorn, and a movie They spent holidays back in Michigan and went to church on Sundays Zach still enjoys singing all the songs. Christianity has served as the core foundation for the whole family.

The Curtises, especially Zach, enjoyed watching NBC Nightly News Zach became obsessed with news anchor Tom Brokaw Zenobia shared that they had to be home to watch every evening. As summer approached, when news anchors take time off, she tried to prepare Zach for the possibility of not seeing Brokaw on TV Just as she had predicted, a fill-in appeared at the news desk one evening Zach was crushed Zenobia said, “He was very upset, lips quivering and all, and had a really tough time pulling himself together.” But to this day, Zach is a news enthusiast who knows all the newscasters by name.

Zenobia and her husband eventually went through a divorce, which was a very difficult transition for the family This time period was spent helping her sons cope, but additionally Zenobia struggled with how to distribute attention between her boys, with Nick needing one-onone time and Zach needing help to understand the situation.

Zach earned his certificate of completion and graduated from Fishers High School. It was a huge accomplishment! Following graduation, though, he struggled as his peers moved on to go to college He participated in a nine-month internship program called Project Search, where he learned interview skills and shadowed different departments at St Vincent Carmel Hospital.

At age 21, Zach began working as a day porter for First Internet Bank, a job he has held for the past 7 years. He still has plans to earn his GED one day Zenobia said, “I can’t even begin to thank First Internet Bank and all that the people there have done for him. The patience and guidance they have extended to him is nothing short of amazing ”

Brother Nick, also a Fishers High School alum, graduated from MIT and then did some mission work abroad. Most recently, Nick was living in Austin, TX, where he was primarily doing film work. Zach and his mom enjoyed having Nick back home this summer, spending quality time together and looking forward to his wedding in July. Zach was in the wedding. Nick and his wife now live in Georgia.

When the Curtises first learned about Zach’s autism, they were told he would never live independently But in October 2021, Zach moved into his own apartment His particular apartment complex has a percentage of units set aside for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Zenobia said the move was a big transition, especially for her. But Zach does come home to visit his mom on weekends.

The two enjoyed picking out furniture together, and Zach knew he wanted a theme of red, black and white.

He calls his apartment his “Man Cave” and really enjoys his independence After moving into his own place, Zenobia shared with a chuckle, Zach proudly asked her, “I’m my own man, right mom?”

Zach’s main priority now is learning to drive, which has been a challenge since he can have trouble focusing and gets distracted easily His ambition to succeed and grow himself is admirable and seems to be a rooted personality trait despite his challenges with autism Many say that if Zach wants something, he doesn’t give up.

A strong-willed attitude allows Zach to advocate for himself to be included in the community He may not have a driver’s license, but he is incredibly involved! In addition to working, he is a member of THRIVE Social Group (an 18+ social and networking program). He speaks for the Joseph Maley Foundation, telling others about living with autism He is a Special Olympics athlete and serves on the Special Olympics Athletic Leadership Council. Additionally, he serves as a Best Buddies Global Ambassador.

Best Buddies is an inclusive program that pairs persons with IDD with typical peers Zach and his matched buddy, Madeline, were awarded “Buddy Pair of the Year” in 2012. Their friendship has persisted since their grade school days When Madeline got married, Zach was even in the wedding. The two recently attended their 10-year high school reunion together, and Madeline still takes Zach Christmas shopping every year Their families agree that the two will always be close.

The Curtises attribute their strength and resilience in overcoming struggles and “bumps in the road,” as they call them, to their strong faith.

Zenobia said, “We are blessed to have very strong advocates for the IDD community in Fishers and all of Hamilton County It truly does take a village, so having as many advocates and resources as possible makes all the difference now, and I believe will even more so in the future.”

To those in similar situations, Zenobia says to “surround yourself with supportive and understanding people. Get involved in organizations and advocate for your child’s community.” Zenobia works full time and is also on the Special Olympics County Management Team and the THRIVE planning committee. She highlighted the importance of parents taking care of themselves, too.

With an obvious love, the Curtis family will likely remain advocates for others with special needs, their strong faith weaving threads of strength throughout the community. Zenobia says, “I have seen the struggles parents have and the unbelievable resilience of not only the parents, but our beautiful children I have learned so much from them.”

By Lindsey Watson

11/05/2024

IN HONOR OF NATIONAL ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH

Firefly Children and Family Alliance is a statewide initiative in Indiana to find loving, committed, safe, permanent families for children in foster care

BY SHALESTA PETERSON AND ERIN CARTER, FIREFLY CHILDREN AND FAMILY ALLIANCE

Rocky, 14:

If you love “The Lion King,” you’ve got to meet Rocky! He loves the songs and will sing along to each one He loves animals, especially dogs and dinosaurs Always wanting to be helpful, Rocky does well with taking care of animals or helping around the house Spiderman is Rocky’s favorite superhero because he helps others. If Rocky had one wish, it would be to have the same superpowers as Spiderman and be able to help others too! Rocky would do well in a single- or two-parent family with a supportive community who will ensure his social and emotional needs are met He needs a family who will show him affection and love while maintaining a consistent routine.

https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/rocky-8605/

Miley, 16:

Miley is a creative young lady with aspirations of becoming a pop star! She’s a wonderful singer and loves showing off what she can do. Her favorite subject in school is definitely music, but she also enjoys art and English. Miley is a big fan of Asian culture: she loves everything anime, and her favorite foods are Japanese and Korean Miley would do well in either a one- or two-parent home and would do best as an only child Families need to be willing to take on any medical or therapeutic needs she may have in the future She will thrive with patience and communication, and with parents who take an interest in her hobbies

https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/miley-8789/

Jace, 12:

Jace loves absolutely everyone and is a big-time hugger! He likes to be around others and has never met a stranger. If he can make you laugh with a silly face, he’s definitely going to try! Jace likes to help, so you’ll often catch him alongside you while you complete chores Jace would do well in either a one- or two-parent home without other children If there are other children, they should be older so Jace can receive plenty of attention He does best with consistency and structure. Parents who can show patience and are willing to make education a priority are ideal.

https://www indianaadoptionprogram org/profile/jace-9404/

Gracie, 12:

Gracie is a sweet girl with a huge heart! If you ask her what she’s proud of, she’ll quickly tell you “everything!” But what she’s really most proud of is that every Christmas she helps with charity drives to get presents to kids who wouldn’t otherwise have any. Her favorite pop artist is Taylor Swift; she could dance along to her songs all day!

Gracie is artistic and enjoys spending an afternoon drawing; it’s a great way to express how she feels. In school she loves when it’s time for reading class; “Clifford the Big Red Dog” is a perennial favorite Gracie would do well in either a one- or two-parent home and would love brothers or sisters She will thrive with parents who take an interest in her activities and are always there to support her

https://www indianaadoptionprogram org /profile/gracie-9378/

Enzo, 12:

Hands-on Enzo loves taking things apart and putting them back together! He’s great at following directions and doesn’t mind putting together something complicated as long as it looks cool in the end! He’s a great craftsman and enjoys making new, fun designs out of anything his imagination can come up with. He doesn’t mind helping out with chores and likes to feel useful around the house! Enzo would do well in either a one- or twoparent home and would love a forever family that came with older brothers or sisters he can look up to. He does best in a calm environment with parents who make communication a priority. Predictability is key to helping Enzo feel safe, so a family that can offer routine and structure is critical. https:// www.indianaadoptionprogram.org/ profile/enzo-9695/

Jordan, 12:

Jordan has a ton of energy and she’s always running around! She’ll race just about anybody and will usually leave you eating her dust! She loves the outdoors and could spend all day in the garden weeding or picking vegetables. She loves taking care of animals – when she’s around, they’re never lacking for attention! Jordan’s a tremendous athlete and excels at whatever she tries. Her favorite sports are basketball, volleyball, and soccer and she loves when people come out to her games to cheer her on! Jordan would do well in either a one- or two-parent home and would love brothers or sisters. She thrives with plenty of one-on-one time and parents who make sure she feels special and that her needs are met. https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/jordan-9759/

Matthew, 16:

An adorable guy with a great smile and a big personality, Matthew likes to say hello by giving high fives! He’s at his happiest when he’s with people he cares about, especially if they are playing outside! Matthew will keep you on your toes! He likes to run, jump, and do cartwheels; once he’s worn out, he likes to wind down by coloring, playing with blocks or being read to. Matthew will thrive in a family with structure and supervision where praise and activity are abundant. He lights up whenever anyone praises him! Parents will need to make a lifelong commitment to Matthew.

https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/matthew-9144/

Brooklyn 17:

Brooklyn loves to meet new people and visit new places! An explorer at heart, she’s outgoing and adventurous, and wants everyone to be included in her adventures! She’ll talk freely to anyone and is eager to tell others about happenings in her life. Brooklyn enjoys a good joke and playing friendly pranks; seeing others laughing and having fun makes her happy! She’d be delighted if you’d join her in activities like swimming, riding bikes, or completing puzzles. Loving and compassionate Brooklyn will thrive in a family where there is stability, structure, and routine. She would do well in a family where she is the youngest child and can receive one-on one attention.

https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/brooklyn-8851/

Gabriel, 15:

Gabe is a creative young man who loves to have fun! He’ll find something fun to do no matter where he is, whether it’s playing a cool new app on his tablet, climbing trees, or jumping on the trampoline! He’s a huge sports fan (but can’t decide which one’s his favorite –he loves them all!). He prides himself on not being a picky eater and will try most foods – unless it comes from the ocean. He’s not trying that! Gabe would do best in a two-parent home without other children so he gets plenty of attention. He hopes for parents who are as active as he is and will want to do fun activities with him. https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/gabe-8705a/

Zoey 16:

Zoey excels at sports, and works hard to improve her athletic skills every day. She’s hoping to join a softball team and can’t wait to meet a whole new group of friends! She also excels at volleyball and basketball and is always looking for new things to try. When it comes to learning, she prefers handson experiences where she really gets to work with something! Zoey would do well in either a one- or two-parent home and would appreciate at least one female figure to look up to and learn from. She would do well with brothers or sisters, as long as she gets plenty of one-on-one attention. Zoey hopes for parents who want to come to her sports events and cheer her on. https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/zoey-9683/

Anthony, 16:

Anthony is an outgoing child who doesn’t know a stranger! He’s very curious about the world around him and loves reading books, particularly the “I Spy” series or science books. Take him to a bookstore and he’ll wander the aisles for hours in search of the right book! He’s also quite the gamer, especially “Subway Surfer.” Anthony loves being out in the community, so if there’s a farmer’s market or a festival going on, he’ll want to check it out! The ideal family for Anthony will be a two-parent household with no other children in the home. Parents will need to be patient, nurturing, loving, and affectionate. And of course, they’ll need to be engaged in their community and open to letting Anthony experience new activities and further develop his social skills. https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/anthony-8763/

LaShawn, 9:

Silly and sweet LaShawn is so caring and loving to the people around him. You’ll never have to wonder if he likes you or not; he’ll make it very clear! He finds just about everything funny, so you’ll have no trouble making this guy laugh. He likes to spend an afternoon chilling out watching his favorite cartoons. His favorite color is red so it’s no surprise he loves fire trucks and hopes to be a fireman someday! His heritage is important to him, so LaShawn would do best in a twoparent, African-American home. He should be the only child in the home so he gets plenty of one-on-one time. Parents who make sure they take time out of their day to spend just with him would be ideal.

https://www.indianaadoptionprogram. org/profile/lashawn-9328/

https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy/docs/nov_2024_uniquely_you_indy_web_1_.pdf/s/59852468

BY SHALESTA PETERSON AND ERIN CARTER, FIREFLY CHILDREN AND FAMILY ALLIANCE

Address

9075 N Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN
46260

Telephone

+12488828448

Website

https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy

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National expansion of Uniquely You. We are so excited to be expanding into 4 new states across the nation. If you know someone who would like to start a Uniquely You near them. Please tag them below to send us a message to let us know you’re interested. Check out our past digital issues here https://linktr.ee/uniquelyyouindiana

❌POSTPONED UNTIL SPRING OF 2025!!!!❌ Purpose Driven FundRace Event On Saturday, Nov 2nd, get ready for the ride of your life! Slide into the form fitting seat of a state-of-the-art, electric racing kart and let it rip on a parking lot racecourse. Compete against other drivers in a thrilling kart racing competition for top honors. Professional race car driver, Jagger Jones, grandson of the legendary 1963 Indy 500 winner, Parnelli Jones, and Angela Savage, daughter of famed Indy racer, Swede Savage will greet you as part of the event team. Participation takes approximately an hour and a half. Participants will register for one of four, ninety-minute sessions that will be held throughout the day. The race is open to licensed drivers who are at least 16 years of age or older. The registration fee is $50 per driver, plus a $300 minimum fundraising commitment. Alternatively, participants may choose to pay a $300 registration fee and have no fundraising obligation. A three-person team may enter for $850. Company sponsorship opportunities are available, which include a team entry and other entitlements. The race is sponsored by Uniquely You! magazine, a monthly publication dedicated to the special needs community. The magazine features personal stories written by individuals and families within the community, with the aim of inspiring, connecting, and offering hope to others facing similar challenges. Its stories serve to uplift and support those who may be feeling overwhelmed, seeking connections, or in need of community. Proceeds from the event will offset printing costs, allowing the magazine to reach more individuals and organizations in the community. These efforts ensure that those who can benefit from the valuable insights and information provided by the magazine can access it, regardless of financial constraints. Through fundraising initiatives with Miles Ahead, Uniquely You! continues its mission of providing essential support and resources to the special n

We had such a blast today at the Uniquely You Magazine & We Rock The Spectrum - Carmel Fun & Resource fair today!! Thanks to everyone who showed up to support & enjoy!!

snl empowerment day

SNL moms weekend retreat at Teter Organic Farms.

Words can't express the impact this weekend has had on 22 special needs moms lives. We are so thankful to Teter Retreat and Organic Farm for hosting. Thank you to Lindsay Zehren with Resounding Joy Indiana for leading many of the workshops and music sessions together. Thank you to Purposeful Living INC for providing the love boxes and Erin Boaz & Mary Warner for leading the workshop to impact the ladies. Thanks to Katelyn White for leading our mindfulness moment on Sunday. Thanks to all the food sponsors Sweet Greens, Positive Interactions Therapy - Julie Walker for making breakfast casseroles. Janus & capabilities Cafe for coming to make breakfast Sunday morning, Chuck fil A for providing lunch Sunday. Tanya for making dinner Friday night and chi tea on Saturday. Gaylor Electric for sponsoring the cost so each lady could build their own flower planter to take with them. Outward Bound Support Services, LLC for sponsoring some ladies to attend at no cost and for the others who donated and helped cover the cost. 6 ladies were able to attend at no cost. https://youtu.be/mLFh6jBdTEg This was such a blessing to spend time together this weekend. For many it was their 1st time ever away from their kids. There were tears, laughter, fun, hikes, great conversations, growth, healing, friendship, hugs, Smores, friendship. Time like this is so valuable. Taking time to fill our cups up to be able to pour into the ones we love most is important. Thank you to all who helped this weekend be possible. It was a weekend to remember for all.

Thanks so much for coming out to the Special Needs Living Magazine New Year's Bash. Thanks to all the supporters who helped make this event possible and thanks to all the bands with Rock Garage, ∞ Infinity, Rhino Down.

Special Needs Living fun day at Ibeach31

Thanks again to everyone for coming out. We enjoy putting on events like this to bring the community together. We know how challenging it can be to go places in the community. It's nice to have a safe and judgement free place to go and connect with others. This kind of experience can encourage families to continue to try new things and venture out into the community more. We look forward to seeing you at future events. Additional information about IBeach31 below. iBeach31 Westfield operates April-October 7 outdoor beach courts 17341 Westfield Park Rd, Westfield, IN 46074 iBeach31 Greenfield features 3 INDOOR BEACH volleyball courts and operates YEAR ROUND. 6825 W 400N, Greenfield, IN 46140. iBeach31 is the first outdoor beach volleyball venue in Westfield, IN. 7 pro level beach volleyball courts! We have options for ALL AGES AND LEVELS - From recreational to competitive & everything in between. If you can play it in the sand, you can find it at iBeach31. Adults & Juniors - Don't have a full team? No problem, sign up as an individual & we will place you on a team! https://ibeach31.leaguelab.com/ 317-530-3005 [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/ibeach31vb/