non-profit spotlight By: Katie Harris
Our purpose is to change the way the world defines and views disability by making profound, positive differences in people’s lives every day. Tell us more about your organization: Easterseals Crossroads is your community resource dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve milestones in independence from birth through later life. One of over 70 Easterseals affiliates throughout the country, we are a United Way agency offering CARF accredited programs in Indiana. We have been a leading resource for people with disabilities since 1936. For young families, we are there at the beginning with early intervention therapy for babies/toddlers and therapy services for children. We grow with your family with autism services, camp and respite programs. As your family ages, we assist with transition services, employment assistance, veteran programs and community day supports. As your family changes, we provide answers for independence through assistive technology, deaf services and home modification services. How does your organization support those in the special needs community? For 85 years, Easterseals Crossroads has been actively engaged in helping individuals with disabilities achieve their greatest levels of independence. We help
18 Special Needs Living • December 2020
make positive outcomes for the many people who use our services. This past year, we served almost 9,000 individuals with disabilities or special needs. How can others get involved or support your organization? At Easterseals Crossroads, we know the importance of teamwork, especially when it comes to tough times. This past year has challenged our agency, our community and our world with the COVID pandemic. The obstacles have been immense for everyone within our community; we have felt the struggles within our own Easterseals Crossroads family. We know – now more than ever – that we are stronger together. In addition to our staff, we cannot thrive without our partners, sponsors, advocates, volunteers, supporters and donors. We cannot do what we do without support from people who know that teamwork is what enables Easterseals Crossroads to do what it does best.