5 Ways to Show VersAbility Resources Some Love During Disability Pride Month
VersAbility Resources supports people with disabilities in leading productive and fulfilling lives year-round. But July is a special month annually as it’s Disability Pride Month, an opportunity to honor the history, achievements, experiences and struggles of the disability community.
What can you do to recognize Disability Pride Month with a VersAbility twist? Here are 5 ideas.
1
If you own a business, become a business partner in VersAbility’s Supported Employment program. People with disabilities are a capable workforce and VersAbility’s Employment Specialists ease the transition for new employees with on-site job training, individualized assessments and long-term support to both the individuals and those who employ them. Garrett Reality Partners, Habitat for Humanity Re-Store – Williamsburg, Muddy Marley’s, Walgreens-Hayes are just a few of VersAbility’s business partners. Learn about this program by contacting Vickie Greatwood at 757-896-8446 orvgreatwood@versability.org.
2
Volunteer with VersAbility, which always needs volunteers at its signature events but can also use help with painting and landscaping at one of its community living homes. The nonprofit also needs teachers and mentors willing to share their talents and expertise with people who have disabilities. Find out how you can get involved by contacting Lara Zawacki at lzawacki@versability.org.
3
When you shop at the Peninsula Farmers Market held at the Jewish Community Center in Newport News on Thursdays, stop by the Super Local Food Project booth that contains young plants and seeds — basil, tomatoes, cucumbers, among them — and bring a plant home. Suggested donation is $4 and all money supports VersAbility’s new Able Acres Community Garden located on the grounds of its Hampton headquarters. Three raised beds containing young vegetables and edible flowers are sowed and harvested by adults in VersAbility’s Day support programs who have identified an interest in gardening and plants. All donations support VersAbility’s Project Independence program, which helps underserved adults and seniors with disabilities to reach their highest level of independence and community engagement through personalized life skills classes and virtual reality simulation. Hours of the market are 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
4
Tell others in the community about the important work taking place at VersAbility by inviting a member of its Speakers Bureau to attend your church, civic, or other group function. Share photos of the event on all your social media accounts using the hashtag #DisabilityPride and #DisabilityPrideMonth. Contact Lara Zawacki at lzawacki@versability.org for information.
5
VersAbility appreciates monetary donations and has introduced two new ways that help the nonprofit and save you money!
When you join or renew your membership to BJ’s before July 31, 2023, you’ll be supporting VersAbility Resources. New members can join with a special promotional rate of $25 and receive a $10 reward. Renewals are $55 and include a $10 reward credited to your account or $110 to renew a rewards membership. Rewards members who renew in July will receive a $20 credit. For VersAbility to receive a donation, you must call 800-313-8887 weekdays between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., and reference Promo code 500313.
If you shop online at Wal-Mart, you can round up your purchase total to the nearest dollar and donate to VersAbility. Learn the few simple steps to do that here.
