Nonprofit Spotlight: Disability Service Provider, Tangram Inc.

BY ANGIE ARLINGTON

Established in 1985 in Hancock County, Indiana, Tangram was founded by families of individuals with disabilities seeking enhanced independent living options for their loved ones. Over the years, Tangram has expanded its reach to serve individuals with disabilities and their families across central Indiana, offering a diverse array of personalized services to address the distinctive needs of those they support. Their wide range of services includes community and residential support, ABA therapy and behavior consulting, life coaching, employment services, transportation assistance, health and wellness programs, education and training opportunities, advocacy, and so much more.

The Tangram community had a blast at our 3rd Annual Band Together for Tangram fundraiser at the Rathskeller.

The Tangram bus is always out and about! We love to visit new places in the community with our clients and help them explore the world around them!

Embracing inclusivity, independence, and community integration is at the core of Tangram’s mission, as well as a focus on cultivating a nurturing environment that encourages personal development and opportunities for meaningful engagement for clients. Through collaborative efforts with various community partners, Tangram is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive society where individuals of all abilities are included and embraced. Their core values are deeply ingrained in everything they do. They believe in putting people

first, embracing their mistakes, remembering their reason, and being committed to improvement. These values guide interactions, decision-making, and service delivery, helping Tangram create a supportive environment where personal growth and positive change are fostered.

Tangram received a book donation from Indy Reads to supplement our library offerings, while promoting literacy for all.

As Tangram CEO, Sam Criss, put it, “The resilience and potential of every individual we serve at Tangram is truly inspiring. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive community where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive.” When asked about Tangram’s impact on the community, Criss highlighted the organization’s commitment to innovation, stating, “We are introducing exciting new programs and initiatives at Tangram, such as our new early intervention assent-based ABA program and the opening of Equal Grounds Cafe, our service learning cafe located at the Indy Art Center. These initiatives aim to address community needs and redefine perceptions of disability.”

Tangram partners with the Indy Art Center to launch Equal Grounds Cafe, offering inclusive employment opportunities for members of the community.

Tangram serves 25+ counties in central Indiana and supports nearly 400 individuals each year with a range of services. The Tangram Way embodies a philosophy and a lifestyle that influences how the Tangram family supports one another and serves their community, aiming to make better individuals of us all. Tangram is proud to offer services to the community and is eagerly anticipating providing services to new clients who can benefit from the support and resources they have to offer.

For more information, please contact Tangram at 317-5711042 or visit www.thetangramway.org.