Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
These locals love exploring Birmingham—see why this is important for adults with disabilities
Reading time: 4 minutes
Sponsored
A few weeks ago, I strolled through Railroad Park with adults from United Ability. As part of the Community Integration Program, these individuals get out and about all the time to explore Birmingham and meet other people who make up our community.
Through this program, participants stay active, connected and engaged. From work and wellness to just having fun, they’re part of everything that makes our city vibrant. Here’s why their community involvement matters so much.
United Ability adults work across Birmingham
United Ability participants work at many companies across Greater Birmingham. (Bham Now, United Ability)
Whether they’re packing textbooks at Publishers’ Warehouse, greeting shoppers at Piggly Wiggly, volunteering with Meals on Wheels or serving with pride at the City of Birmingham, United Ability participants are doing meaningful work throughout the metro area.
Wauren Truitt is an example of someone who loves their work. Wauren and I walked around Railroad Park, and he told me all about his brand new job at Publishers’ Warehouse.
“United Ability has transformed my brother’s life in numerous ways. It has provided him with inclusion, empowerment and support. It has helped him develop job skills and interpersonal skills.
It has also given him a sense of purpose and the confidence needed to become an independent, productive member of society.”
Deborah Truitt, Wauren’s sister
Education, health + community service all in one place
United Ability’s Adult Services doesn’t stop at employment. Participants are constantly learning and growing through:
- Computer classes through the Is-Able Technology Center
- Checking out books from the Homewood Public Library
- Staying active with trips to the Jewish Community Center, Hoover + Bessemer Rec Centers
And it’s not just about what they do for themselves—they give back, too. You’ll find them volunteering with groups like Meals on Wheels and The Firehouse Shelter to show that everyone can make a difference.
The value in United Ability’s community outings
Hanging with friends at Railroad Park! (Callie Morrison / Bham Now)
We spent the day at Railroad Park, but this group has gone on tons of outings together—including a fishing trip at Oak Mountain State Park, going to the movies and their annual water fun day.
They get out and about on the weekends, too, with group hangs at the World Games in 2022 and supporting the local Magic City Performing Arts.
Fun fact: These adults from United Ability went on more than 1,400 outings last year!
“As a parent of an adult with autism, I cannot express how challenging it is to find a place that meets all his needs. His community experience is an invaluable opportunity for him to engage in a daily routine and be around the personnel who are truly special, very kind and professional people.
They create activities that are accessible to everyone, making inclusion a priority.
Margis Riveira, Carlos’ mom
Thinking about adult services for a loved one?
United Ability’s Adult Community Integration Program is a safe and engaging program where adults with disabilities can grow personally, socially and professionally.
If you’re seeking it for a loved one, here are a few things to know:
- There are plenty of accessible vehicles for individuals with various mobility challenges to access their community
- The Adult Program operates Monday-Friday, 7:30AM-3:30PM
- United Ability accepts private pay + participants on Medicaid waivers
Learn more + enroll in United Ability’s Adult Services!
Empowering individuals with disabilities through work + play
This is what United Ability does best: It empowers individuals and refuses to let them be defined by their disabilities.
“Community integration at United Ability has provided my son with opportunities for service and exposure to various activities and events that educate, challenge and entertain him.
The ear to ear smile on his face when I pick him up confirms that he is right where he should be.”
Jill Pitts, Trey’s mom
Keep up with United Ability on Facebook + Instagram to see how they equip individuals to live out their full potential, regardless of ability.
Sponsored by:
