May 11, 2023
[SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI] - Empower: Abilities, a local disability nonprofit resource center, hosted a tie-dye event exclusively tailored for youth with disabilities on May 11, 2023. The Youth Social Club event was hosted in the spacious community room (available for event rental) located at 1450 West Cambridge Street in Springfield and was attended by several young people with different disabilities and their families.
Brooke Gober, the Youth Program Specialist at empower: abilities, organized the event to provide a fun and inclusive activity for the young participants. Tie-dye was chosen as the activity of choice as it is a popular and easy-to-do activity that allows for all kinds of creative expression.
Participants were provided the materials needed for tie-dyeing, including t-shirts, rubber bands, gloves, and dye. They were guided through the process by staff and volunteers who were on hand to provide assistance and support.
As the tie-dyeing got underway, participants were encouraged to express their creativity and make designs that reflected their personalities. Laughter and excitement filled the air as the kids and teens experimented with different tie-dye techniques, from spiral patterns bursting with a kaleidoscope of colors to bold and abstract designs, each artwork was a testament to the unique perspectives and creativity of the participants.
In addition to the tie-dye activity, the event also included snacks and a movie for participants to watch while others were dyeing their shirts. This event, which aimed to provide a unique platform for these young individuals to express themselves, foster a sense of belonging, and enjoy a day filled with colors and joy, was an excellent reminder that kids with disabilities should be included and valued in all aspects of society; by providing opportunities for fun and creativity, we can promote inclusivity and build stronger communities.
Empower: abilities is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides support, resources, and advocacy for people with disabilities. They aim to be a one-stop-shop for all things disability-related in Southwest Missouri. Their mission is to assist all people with disabilities to live their fullest life and participate in an accessible world of social equality. Find out more at empowerabilities.org.
