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SEPTEMBER 2026

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MEET COLESON HENRY

Seeing Beyond the Labels

Personalized behavior support for individuals and families where life actually happens

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September 2026

CONTENTS 14

Meet the Uniquely You Team!

Important Phone Numbers

Your Story Matters!: Meet Coleson Henry: Seeing Beyond the Labels

Partner Spotlight: Superior Vans

Nonprofit Spotlight: Together Employment Aims for More Inc. (T.E.A.M)

Champions Unheard: America’s Forgotten Team

Authentically You: What Is Adaptive Sexuality Education?

Preferred Partners Uniquely You Indy

Meet the Uniquely You Team! Publication Staff

Jamie Olson PUBLISHER AND AREA DIRECTOR

Christia Woodford CONTENT MANAGER, PUBLISHING ASSISTANT AND LOCAL EVENTS

Christina McGairk EDITOR-INCHIEF

Dr. Darolyn “Lyn” Jones CONTENT COORDINATOR AND WRITER

Zachary Curtis COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Paul Mycraft COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Lisa Jegen UNIQUELY YOU MAGAZINE IN NORTHWEST INDIANA

Staff Writers and Contributors

Paul Hathcoat

Susan Graham

Lindsey Watson

Tanya Sood

Charles Spray MS, LMHC

Dorie Zipperle

Kelsey Green

Tabitha Zeigler

Rebecca Parten

Debra Bader

Jessica Willits

Andy Fitzenrider

Francisco ‘Jay’ Javier Luna, Jr.

Coleson Henry

Kelsey Amos

Marissa Pangle

Leonard Tunstall

Brittany Roemer

Photographers

OWNER/ ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

Jamie Olson jamie.olson@n2co.com 248-882-8448

Katie Mendez PHOTOGRAPHY

September 2026

Angela Tarr FINE ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

To Schedule An Appointment With Jamie Olson-Uniquely You!

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CREATING A STRONGER, MORE INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY where

individuals of all abilities are not only welcomed- but empowered. Inclusive day habilitation and

Good Education is the Foundation to a

BRIGHT FUTURE . Empowering Students Through Personalized Learning.

Abeka Accredited Curriculum & Personalize Learning Plans (PLPs)

community-based programming for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and mental health disabilities SKILL DEVELOPMENT CREATIVE EXPLORATION SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT WELLNESS & MOVEMENT SENSORY & EMOTIONAL REGULATION Pre-K to 8th Grade Tutoring, Special Programs, & Student Support Services

• 1:1 Technology Ratio • Integrated Therapeutic Services • Small Class Sizes • Mindfulness & Life Skills Classes • ESA Scholarship Approved • Nurturing Academic, Emotional, and Spiritual Growth • Christian-Based Education • Trauma-Informed Care • IEP/ISP Support • Inclusive Support for All Students

3 1 7 - 2 4 5 - 7 0 5 2 | sunriselearningacademy.org 1401 Norton Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227 Uniquely You Indy

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS UNIQUELY YOU! MAGAZINE AREA DIRECTOR

Jamie Olson 248-882-8448 jamie.olson@n2co.com

317-426-7733 317-977-2375 317-676-4222 800-609-8448 877-241-8144 800-545-7763 800-545-7763

Scan to view the past issues of Special Needs Living Indy and Uniquely You!

Scan to view past digital copies, find resources, share a story or learn more about being involved.

800-622-4968 888-673-0002 800-403-0864 317-232-7800 317-925-7617 877-511-1144 317-466-1000 911 800-545-7763 317-232-0570

844-323-4636 317-233-4454

317-232-7770 812-855-6508 317-233-1325 844-446-7452 855-641-8382 800-332-4433 800-457-4584 317-232-7770 988 800-772-1213 800-772-1213 877-851-4106 317-871-4032 800-545-7763

Ability Allies of Indiana https://abilityallies.org/ Arc of Indiana www.arcind.org Autism Community Connection www.autismcc-in.org Autism Society of Indiana Blind and Visually Impaired Services (BVIS) Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) https://www.in.gov/fssa/ddars/brs/ deaf-and-hard-of-hearing/ Disability Determination Bureau Division of Aging (IDA) Division of Family Resources (DFR) Division of Mental Health and Addiction Down Syndrome Indiana Early Childhood and Out of School Learning (OECOSL) Easterseals Crossroads www.easterseals.com/ Emergency First Steps Indiana Department of Education: Office of Special Education www.doe.in.gov/specialed Indiana Family to Family www.inf2f.org Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) www.in.gov/fssa/index.htm Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities (GPCPD) Indiana Resource Center for Autism Indiana State Department of Health Indiana Statewide Independent Living Council (INSILC) Indiana Works INSOURCE http://insource.org/ Medicaid Disability Medicaid Waivers National Alliance on Mental Illness Social Security Administration (SSA) Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Special Education Questions United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR)

DISCLAIMER: The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a Uniquely You (“N2”). Advertisements appearing in this publication are paid placements and are not endorsed or recommended by N2. N2 is not responsible for the statements, opinions, or business practices of any authors, contributors, or advertisers featured herein. Portions of this publication may include content created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools by authors or contributors and may not be independently verified by N2. We are proud to feature businesses that share our commitment to showcasing local connections. Please note that businesses profiled may have provided free products and/or services for the review. Uniquely You is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, therapeutic, educational, or legal advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding the care and support of individuals with disabilities. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for the event, and they may be used in this publication.We are proud to feature businesses that share our commitment to showcasing local connections. Please note that businesses profiled may have provided free products and/ or services for the review. Uniquely You is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, therapeutic, educational, or legal advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding the care and support of individuals with disabilities. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for the event, and they may be used in this publication.

September 2026

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Your Story Matters!

COLESON how HENRY’S

Confidence, Humor, and Self-Advocacy 8

Are Helping Others Find Their Own

September 2026

He laughs easily about his blindness, often using jokes to help others feel comfortable.

y the time most people notice Coleson Henry leaning closer to a computer screen or holding a book just inches from his face, he has usually already answered the question they’re wondering about. He doesn’t wait for awkward conversations. He doesn’t pretend everything is fine. And he certainly doesn’t apologize. Instead, he smiles, introduces himself, and explains that he’s legally blind. For Coleson, that’s not an uncomfortable conversation. It’s simply part of being himself. “I’ve never really been ashamed of it,” he says. “It’s just a feature that comes with being Coleson.”

That perspective has shaped nearly every part of his life. While many people think selfadvocacy means standing in front of a crowd with a microphone, Coleson sees it differently. To him, self-advocacy begins in everyday conversations. It’s speaking up when accommodations are needed. It’s explaining how his vision affects the way he learns, works, or interacts with others. It’s helping people understand both his strengths and his limitations. Most importantly, it’s recognizing that no one understands his disability better than he does. “A self-advocate is someone who speaks up for themselves, their needs, and their interests,” he explains.

That simple philosophy has opened doors throughout school, work, and daily life. Rather than expecting people to guess what he needs, Coleson has learned that honest conversations make everyone more successful. Teachers understood how to help him learn. Employers recognized how to set him up for success. Friends learned why he sometimes struggled to read facial expressions or needed to sit closer. Instead of creating barriers, those conversations removed them. Learning to advocate for himself didn’t happen overnight. He credits much of that confidence to his parents. Uniquely You Indy

One of his favorite nicknames came from a coworker named Scotty, who jokingly called him a “20/20 Visionary

Growing up, they consistently encouraged him to let people know about his visual limitations instead of struggling silently. At first, those conversations weren’t always easy. Like many young people, speaking up felt uncomfortable. But over time, something changed. The more he explained his disability, the easier those conversations became. Today, they feel completely natural. That confidence also comes with something many people don’t expect. Humor. It’s the kind of playful wordplay Coleson genuinely enjoys. For him, humor doesn’t minimize his disability. It reminds people that disability and laughter can comfortably exist together. His positive outlook extends into the workplace as well. Whether working at Goodwill in Muncie, Goodwill in Salem, or ACE Hardware, Coleson says one thing 10

September 2026

has remained consistent. People have treated him with kindness. His supervisors and coworkers have been accommodating, supportive, and willing to understand what helps him perform at his best. Those experiences reinforced something he already believed. Most people genuinely want to help. Sometimes they simply need someone willing to explain how. That willingness to communicate has become one of Coleson’s greatest strengths. When asked what advice he would give someone who wants to become a better self-advocate, his answer reflects both experience and encouragement. The hardest part, he believes, is simply getting started. Speaking up for yourself can feel intimidating. But like any skill, confidence grows with practice. Once someone begins communicating what they need—and does so respectfully and consistently—it becomes easier every time.

Knowing your needs isn’t selfish. It’s one of the most important tools for reaching your full potential. Away from work, Coleson enjoys many of the same things as other young adults. Video games top the list. Unlike many activities, gaming allows him to compete, explore, and enjoy stories without his vision creating significant limitations. He also enjoys reading well-written books and spending time watching YouTube. His love of gaming has even influenced his career goals. Armed with a marketing and Journalism degree, Coleson dreams of one day working for companies like Bethesda, Nintendo, or Techland. Combining his passion for gaming with a career in marketing would be a dream come true. At the same time, he’s quick to point out that any opportunity in advertising or marketing would allow him to use the skills he’s worked hard to develop.

Currently, he’s working for this very magazine, writing stories about nonprofits and other individuals like him. “What really inspired me to join the team was an opportunity to put my degree to work, but also because I can heavily relate to the subjects of the stories and appreciate the value in the non-profits I write about. It makes what I write about feel that much more personal,” he says. Family remains one of the greatest sources of encouragement in his life. He speaks warmly about his parents, siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles, describing them as people he loves dearly. That strong support system has given him the confidence to approach life with optimism instead of hesitation. Perhaps that’s what makes Coleson’s story so refreshing. He doesn’t define success by overcoming blindness. He defines success by understanding himself. His vision may be limited. His confidence is not.

His willingness to explain his needs has helped classmates, employers, coworkers, and friends better understand how to support him—not because he asked for special treatment, but because he invited them into his world. For readers who may be struggling to find their own voice, Coleson offers a lesson that reaches far beyond disability. Self-advocacy isn’t about demanding attention. It isn’t about focusing on limitations. It’s about recognizing your own value, understanding what helps you succeed, and having the courage to communicate those needs with confidence and respect. For Coleson Henry, being legally blind is only one chapter of his story. His humor. His determination. His love for family. His passion for writing. His career aspirations. Those are the chapters still being written. And if his journey is any indication, the future is looking remarkably bright.

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Partner Spotlight

SUPERIOR VANS

Freedom Is Not a Luxury How Wheelchair-Accessible Transportation Changes Everything

HERE IS A MOMENT that almost every mobility specialist at Superior Van & Mobility has witnessed, and no matter how many times they see it, it never gets old. It is the moment a customer sits behind the wheel of a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for the first time, or watches a family member roll effortlessly into a van that was built with their life in mind, and the expression on their face shifts from uncertainty to something that looks a lot like relief. Like a door that had been stuck for a long time finally swung open. That moment is why we do what we do. At Superior Van & Mobility, we have spent decades working alongside individuals with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers to make sure that transportation is never the thing that stands between a person and the life they want to live. Because here is the truth that anyone in the disability community already knows: when you cannot get where you need to go, everything else gets harder. Appointments get missed. Jobs become impossible. Family gatherings feel out of reach. And the slow erosion of independence that comes with limited mobility can affect not just a person’s daily routine, but their sense of self. Wheelchair-accessible transportation is not a luxury. It is a lifeline. 14

September 2026

What Accessibility Really Means When most people hear the phrase “wheelchair-accessible vehicle,” they picture a modified van with a ramp. And while that is certainly part of what we do, the reality of what accessibility means to our customers is far more personal and far more complex than any single piece of equipment. Accessibility means a veteran who sustained a spinal cord injury can get himself to his own medical appointments without depending on someone else to drive him. It means a mother with multiple sclerosis can take her kids to school, sit in the pickup line, and be the one behind the wheel when her daughter wins her first soccer game. It means a young man with muscular dystrophy can drive himself to a job interview, shake hands with his future employer, and earn that job on his own terms. The equipment makes all of that possible, but what it is really delivering is dignity. The ability to move through the world on your own schedule, under your own power, without having to ask for help every time you need to be somewhere. That is what wheelchairaccessible transportation gives people, and it is something the rest of us take for granted every single day.

Superior Van & Mobility works with customers across the country to match them with the right solution for their specific needs. That might be a full wheelchair-accessible van conversion with an in-floor ramp and hand controls. It might be a lift or carrier added to an existing vehicle. It might be adaptive driving equipment that allows someone to operate a vehicle in ways that traditional controls would not accommodate. Every person’s situation is different, and our job is to listen carefully, assess honestly, and recommend the solution that best fits that person’s life, not a one-size-fits-all product that looks good in a brochure.

A Story About Getting Back A few years ago, a man we will call David came into one of our locations in the Midwest. David was in his late fifties and had been a lifelong hunter and fisherman. He had spent his weekends on the water and in the woods since he was a kid, and those trips were not just hobbies. They were how he stayed connected to his father’s memory, how he decompressed after long weeks at work, and how he built relationships with his own sons over decades. Then David had a stroke that left him with significant mobility limitations on his left side. He could still get around, but getting in and out of a standard vehicle

had become painful and sometimes impossible. He had not been fishing in over a year when he walked through our doors, and the look on his face when he came in told us everything. He was not just looking for a vehicle. He was looking for a way back to himself. Our team spent time with David, not just reviewing his physical needs but understanding his life. What did he need to do? Where did he need to go? What mattered most to him? After a thorough evaluation, we set him up with adaptive equipment that made getting in and out of his truck manageable again, along with hand controls that let him drive comfortably and safely. Six months later, David sent a photo to one of our team members. He was standing in waders at the edge of a river, holding a fishing rod, with two of his sons beside him. The note with it said simply: “First trip back. Thank you.” That is what we are in the business of. Not modified vehicles. Moments like that one.

A Story About Going First Maria was twenty-three years old and had used a power wheelchair since she was a teenager following a car accident. She was sharp, driven, and had just landed her first job out of college, a position at a marketing firm downtown in a city where parking was scarce and public transit was unreliable for someone with her equipment needs. Her parents had always driven her where she needed to go, and they did it with love and without complaint. But Maria was ready to drive herself. She had been ready for a long time, and she was determined that her first real job was not going to start with her parents dropping her off at the curb like she was twelve years old. The process of getting into a wheelchair-accessible vehicle and obtaining her driver’s license was not simple. It required an evaluation with a certified driver rehabilitation specialist, training on hand controls and modified steering, and time. But Maria was patient and focused, and when she finally drove herself to work on her first day, she pulled into the parking garage, found her spot, and sat in her van for a moment before going in.

She told our team later that she cried a little. Not because it was hard. Because she had been waiting for that moment for years, and it had finally arrived. Stories like Maria’s remind us that the work of adaptive mobility is not just technical. It is deeply human. It is about recognizing that independence looks different for every person and that the right support, delivered with respect and expertise, can change the entire trajectory of someone’s life.

What Families Need to Know If you are a family member or caregiver supporting someone who uses a wheelchair or other mobility device, the world of adaptive vehicles and equipment can feel overwhelming at first. There are a lot of options, a lot of terminology, and a lot of decisions to make. Here is what we want you to know. You do not have to figure it out alone. The right mobility dealer will walk you through every option, explain the differences clearly, and help you understand what funding resources may be available, including Veterans Affairs benefits, state vocational rehabilitation programs, and other assistance programs that many families do not know exist. At Superior Van & Mobility, our specialists are trained not just in the equipment but in the funding landscape, because we know that cost is one of the biggest barriers families face. We also want families to know that trying before buying is possible. Many of our locations offer rental options so that a customer can experience a vehicle or piece of equipment before committing to a purchase. The right solution should feel right, and we would rather take the time to get it right than rush someone into something that does not truly fit their needs. Most importantly, we want families to know that the conversation is worth starting. Whether someone is newly navigating a disability or has been living with one for years and is only now considering a vehicle modification, it is never too early or too late to explore what is possible. The goal is always the same: more freedom, more independence, and more life.

The Road Ahead Wheelchair accessibility has come a long way in recent decades, and the technology available today is remarkable. Vehicles that were once cumbersome and difficult to operate have become sleek, intuitive, and increasingly affordable. Hand controls, powered running boards, in-floor ramps, remote-operated doors, and adaptive steering systems are all part of a growing toolkit that makes independent driving more accessible than ever before. But technology is only part of the story. The other part is people. The mobility specialists, driver rehabilitation specialists, occupational therapists, and support teams who work alongside individuals with disabilities every day to make sure that equipment is not just functional but truly life-changing. At Superior Van & Mobility, we are proud to be part of that community, and we are committed to continuing to show up for our customers with the same care, expertise, and genuine investment in their independence that has defined our work for decades. Because freedom is not a luxury. It belongs to everyone. And when the right vehicle pulls up and the ramp comes down and someone rolls forward into a life with fewer limits, that is not just a sale. That is what we are here for.

Superior Van & Mobility is a full-service mobility dealer offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles, adaptive driving equipment, lifts, carriers, and mobility seating for both personal and commercial use. To learn more or connect with a mobility specialist near you, visit superiorvan.com. Uniquely You Indy

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Nonprofit Spotlight

Together Employment Aims for More Inc. (TEAM) BY K E L S E Y A M O S

September 2026

WHAT IS THE MISSING PIECE in today’s job market? Some claim it’s the lack of equal, fair opportunities for diverse demographics, while others point to low wages being offered for high workloads. While the current job market is facing a multitude of problems ranging from unrealistic, unbalanced work expectations to workers being hired for jobs way below their qualifications and experience, there’s also a unique problem that’s often overlooked: job opportunities for individuals with special needs. Workloads are already demanding and draining on those within the traditional, corporate world, and an alarming growing number of candidates with even extensive experience have found themselves out of work for months – and in extreme cases – years. With this unpredictable and chaotic reality of our economy, one might wonder: what about those with disadvantages? Whether limited by physical or mental impairments, individuals with disabilities struggle even more in this world already not tailored to consider them. How then, are they to navigate this impossible job market? With the help of resources such as the Fisher based

organization TEAM (Together Employability Aims for More, Inc.) TEAM works closely with teens and young adults of varying ages and abilities to build employable skills and achieve long-term employment. Their ultimate mission is to become a staple in the Fisher’s community for those who don’t or can’t have readily available employment opportunities through both training and hands-on experience. The end goal? To connect their prepared candidates with jobs in the local Fisher’s community! But how does TEAM achieve this? Through community based contributions and professional learning opportunities, including their coffee shop located within their clinic. The coffee shop mimics a real world job environment (and yes, actually sells coffee!), training individuals within their program to utilize the skills learned in the classroom in real time. Classroom learning is of course where these foundations are built, and TEAM has a unique framework for how they teach. The focus is on teaching essential executive functioning skills, which dives a bit deeper than just teaching hard and soft skills. Executive functioning skills refers to the general definition of executive functioning, which Uniquely You Indy

Founder Shelly King

Leah Stayer – a parent – states, “I feel there is great value for my son working with the therapists at TEAM. I’ve been at this a long time and they are some of the BEST we have worked with hands down!”

refers to skills used to manage everyday tasks, such as solving problems, making plans, and adapting to new situations and change. These skills naturally develop throughout one’s lifetime, but every individual’s threshold for how and to what degree they develop varies by their unique circumstances. These skills that TEAM teaches are the foundation of not only succeeding within a job, but most importantly managing life healthily while achieving independence. As well as the three main skills listed above, TEAM also teaches working memory skills (remembering instructions), inhibition control (self-control), and juggling multiple tasks in order to achieve goals. By focusing on individual’s basic abilities and cognitive functioning, success in learning those specific skills required for some jobs (such as hard skills) won’t be so overwhelming. The models that they use are first and foremost therapeutic, and meets the individual where they are, creating a trusting and safe environment. How does TEAM help the families of individuals through challenges and the individuals themselves? By establishing a creative environment, and partnering with families to identify needs across multiple settings. Challenges aren’t just helped in the work setting, but can present also in the home and school setting as well. A tailored learning environment is provided for each of these as needed. Barriers and further challenges that may prevent independence at home or outside the home are also addressed. Skills are constantly taught to address whatever needs are presented to help each individual maintain 20

September 2026

long-term jobs and promote self-confidence. TEAM also partners with Vocational Rehabilitation by collaborating with job coaches to support successful employment outcomes. The organization can also serve as a consultant to job coaches working with individuals through Vocational Rehabilitation. In addition, TEAM works with vendors that employ individuals with disabilities to help create successful workplace opportunities. How can you get involved and support this essential organization? Connecting those in need to TEAM’s services in the Fisher’s and surrounding areas are a big help, as well as stopping by their coffee shop to buy drinks and help with the learners’ training (The coffee shop is open MondayThursday from 8–12 and 1–5, and Friday from 8-12, and welcomes volunteers to help run the coffee shop during open hours. Volunteer opportunities, in addition to employment opportunities, provide valuable, sustainable ways for businesses and community members to support individuals with disabilities.) Another important way to help is by assisting TEAM in creating connections to local jobs and other resources within the Fisher’s area to help individuals who “graduate” transition to other job opportunities. With the community’s help and support, organizations like TEAM can continue to flourish and provide its meaningful, life-changing programs to individuals with special needs. Speech therapist and program director Katelyn Kudla states, “In our time since beginning the program, we have seen teens and young adults flourish, grow, and rise to work settings in ways that have been very encouraging.” Families reportedly say TEAM’s program is like “the missing piece,” and the skills are “exactly what their loved ones needs.” Local school partnerships have also rendered positive feedback, with one school reporting that they feel as if all their students could benefit from the skills and strategies being taught. Please join us in supporting TEAM and their dedicated staff so that their learners can – par the slogan for One Day Cafe, a DBA of TEAM – “Rise and shine to new possibilities!”

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Pathways 2 Communication AGES 6 THROUGH ADULTHOOD

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Certiﬁed S2C Practitioner 317.408.3990 | baherospeller@gmail.com Uniquely You Indy

Champions Unheard

America’s Forgotten Team The Legacy and Future of Deaf Sports By Andrew Fitzenrider

MOST AMERICANS know that our U.S. Olympic teams compete against other nations every four years. Some are even aware that we have a Paralympic team for athletes with physical disabilities. Unfortunately, very few of us know that the U.S. also has a team of Deaf and hard of hearing athletes that has been competing internationally since 1924. The Deaflympics are actually the secondlongest-running international multisport event. In 1924, French activist and cyclist Eugène Rubens-Alcais sought to provide a space where Deaf athletes could compete on an international stage without societal barriers and stereotypes. That same year, he organized the first “International Silent Games,” later known as the Deaflympics, in Paris. One hundred forty-eight athletes from nine European nations competed in seven 22

September 2026

sports, including soccer, track and field, diving, cycling, shooting, tennis and swimming. The United States organized a team of deaf amateur athletes and joined the Deaflympics eleven years later, winning four medals in its debut appearance at the summer games. We then participated in the winter games for the first time in 1967, sending eleven athletes to West Germany. The U.S. has won over 1,000 medals in Deaflympics competition, the most of any nation. Terence Parkin, a deaf swimmer from South Africa, won silver at the 2000 able-bodied Summer Olympics and has won the most individual medals in Deaflympics history. Despite their remarkable achievements, most American Deaf athletes remain largely unknown to the general public. The USA Deaf Sports Federation (USADSF) serves as the national governing body for Deaf sports in the United States and is

responsible for overseeing Team USA’s participation in international Deaf sporting competitions, including world championships and the Deaflympics. The organization coordinates athlete development, training opportunities, and international competition while assembling and supporting U.S. teams that proudly represent our nation on the world stage. Guided by a dedicated volunteer board of directors, USADSF invests countless hours and resources to ensure that America’s top Deaf athletes have the opportunity to compete at the highest levels of international sport. Funding remains one of the organization’s greatest challenges. Unlike many countries that provide federal support for their Deaf athletes and national sports federations, USADSF relies almost entirely on private contributions from athletes, families, supporters and other grassroots donors. Over a four-year

Deaflympic cycle, or quadrennial, the organization operates on a budget of approximately $4 million to support athlete development, national team operations, international competition and participation in the Deaflympics. Despite this significant responsibility, fundraising resources are limited, placing a substantial financial burden on both the organization and its athletes. As John Skjeveland, president of USADSF, explains, “Our athletes spend a great deal of time raising the funds necessary to compete in these games. In addition to the cost of training, equipment, and travel, many athletes must raise between $5,000 and $10,000 simply to participate. Our goal is to reduce these financial barriers and build a sustainable pathway that allows our nation’s best athletes to represent the United States at each Deaflympics.” Continued support from donors, sponsors and community partners is critical to ensuring that Team USA’s Deaf athletes have the opportunity to compete on equal footing with athletes from nations that provide government-funded support for their Deaf sports programs.

To support USADSF, contact the organization’s development team at jimskj@usdeafsports.org. Uniquely You Indy

Authentically You

What Is Adaptive Sexuality Education? My daughter has significant physical and cognitive disabilities. Does she really need to learn about sex and dating? M A R I S S A PA N G L E , M A , C S E FO U N D E R , I N D E P E N D E N T PAT HWAYS A A S E C T C E RT I FI E D S E XUA L E D U C ATO R A A S E C T A P P R OVE D C E P R OVI D E R

Practical Pathways for Real Life

Adaptive Sexuality Education Life, My Way™ Curriculum Continuing Education & Professional Training Workshops & Speaking Engagements Individual & Organizational Consultation

Unapologetically autistic herself, Marissa is dedicated to helping people build meaningful pathways toward lives guided by their own goals, values, and priorities. Marissa Pangle, MA, CSE Founder, Independent Pathways AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator AASECT Approved CE Provider

317.740.7537 | independentpathways.com marissapangle@independentpathways.com 24

September 2026

THIS IS A QUESTION that many parents have, and I am glad you brought it forward. When most people hear the words sexuality education, they immediately think about sex and dating. In reality, sexuality education begins long before those conversations. It is about helping individuals understand body awareness, autonomy, personal rights, consent, healthy boundaries, decision making, privacy, navigating the natural changes of puberty, and when applicable, dating, and intimacy. The word adaptive refers to an educational approach that individualizes instruction while ensuring information is accessible and meaningful to the learner. The emphasis is not on changing what is taught, but on changing how it is taught. By adapting instruction to a person’s support needs, individuals of all ages and abilities can meaningfully access information. Safety is one of many reasons adaptive sexuality education is important. Research consistently shows that individuals with disabilities are significantly more likely to experience abuse than the general population, yet they are among the least likely to receive sexuality education. While safety is important, too often, adaptive sexuality education is reduced to preventing abuse or avoiding risk. Those conversations are fundamentally important, but individuals also deserve education that supports autonomy, connection, and healthy sexual development. Disability does not change a person’s humanity. As humans, we are all restricted to experiencing the world through the body we inhabit. The diversity among our bodies is profound. Diversity should never determine access, just as disability should never limit education. Several years ago, I developed a spinal cord injury. Before my injury, I had no understanding of the profound pain and physical limitations that accompany this condition. Today, there are moments when I am working while wishing I could lie down because of severe pain. The people around me would have no way of knowing what I am experiencing because thoughts and needs are invisible. The same is true for many individuals with significant disabilities. A person may not communicate in ways we expect, but that does not mean they are not experiencing needs, thoughts, emotions, or a desire for autonomy and connection. Their experiences are real, even when they are difficult for others to observe. As I read your question, I found myself asking, “What knowledge and skills will help your daughter safely and meaningfully navigate the life she desires?” Some of the most important parts of being human cannot be seen. We cannot assume that what we cannot observe does not exist. If you have a question, story to share, or a topic you would like to see explored, email: askmarissa@independentpathways.com

COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES Linking motivated workers with employers!

765-642-0201 @hopewellcenter hopewellcenter.org

Uniquely You Indy

September 2026

Uniquely You Indy

This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance! ABA & Comprehensive Services

Attorney-Wills/Trusts/ Estate Planning

BehaviorWorks ABA (317) 731-7777 behaviorworksaba.com

Law Office of Elizabeth A. Homes LLC (317) 660-5004

Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers (844) 786-0672 www.hopebridge.com

Behavioral Support/Pac

New Beginnings BIS (317) 366-3432 www.newbeginningsbis.com

Catering & Meal Prep

K1ds Count Therapy (317) 520-4748

Indys Kitchen (317) 476-7507 mealprep.indyskitchen.com

ABA / Residential & Community Support

Sycamore Services (317) 745-4715 sycamoreservices.com

ABA/Comprehensive Services The Hope Source (317) 578-0410

Advocacy & Disability Support

AccessABILITY (317) 926-1660 www.accessabilityin.org

Best Buddies Indiana (317) 436-8440 www.bestbuddies.org/ indiana Carters Play Place (317) 836-5510 cartersplayplace.com Connie’s Clubhouse (435) 621-4153 www.conniesclubhouse.work LEL Home Services (317) 387-1443 lelhomeservices.com

Community Inclusion & Adult Services Hollis Adams (463) 206-1032 www.hollisadams.org

Community Support AID of Indiana (765) 273-3999 aidofindiana.com/

Noble (317) 375-2700 Phoenix Community Services LLC (765) 622-7808 www.Phoenixcommser.com

DJ/Entertainment Services DJ Jesús Indy (317) 766-5742 www.instagram.com/ dj_ jesus_indy

Dyslexia Support Program Retrain the Dyslexic Brain by Dr. Rebecca Troy (218) 393-2423 www.DrRebeccaTroy.com

Education - Microschool and Tutoring

Sunrise Learning Academy www.sunriselearning academy.org

Employment/ Community Support

Hopewell Center (765) 642-0201 www.hopewellcenter.org

Financial

WestPoint Financial Group Gordon Homes (317) 567-2005

Home Care & Pediatric Services

Guardian Care www.myguardian.care

Special needs require SpecialCare. When you're ready, we're here to help. MassMutual's SpecialCare program provides access to information, specialists and financial products and services to help families facing the financial responsibilities of raising a child with a disability or other special needs. To learn more about how a financial professional can help your family, visit MassMutual.com/SpecialCare Gordon F. Homes Jr., CASL, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Special Needs Planner WestPoint Financial 317-567-2005 ghomes@financialguide.com www.gordonfhomes.com Insurance Representative of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111-0001, and its affiliated US Insurance companies. Local firms are sales offices of MassMutual, and are not subsidiaries of MassMutual or its affiliated companies. CRN202012-222355 28

September 2026

Home Care & Transportation

ABC Community Services LLC (317) 516-1178 www.abccommunity services.com

Home Health Services

ComForCare Home Care (317) 575-3983 www.comforcare. com/indiana/ north-metro-indianapolis

Home Modifications / Specialty Equipment

Specialized Home Care Services (888) 506-4182 www.specialized4u.com/

Housing/Transportation/ PAC/Respite

Ice Cream

Neurodiversity support tools

Howdy Homemade Ice Cream (317) 397-0008 www.howdyindy.com

Pop Sugar Cafe (260) 237-2377 www.popsugarcafe.com

Insurance

Neurofeedback Therapy

State Farm John Cole (317) 430-1958

Kid’s Sensory Gym

Indy Neurofeedback (317) 888-8500

Occupational Therapy Support

Rock the Spectrum (317) 764-6607 werockthespectrum carmel.com/

NIKS Independence Academy (NIA) (463) 328-2637

Mobile Service & Detailing

Godley Family Orthodontics godleyfamilyortho.com

Tom Wood Ford Mobile Service (317) 846-4241 www.tomwoodford.com/ service/center.htm

JD Angels Family Care (317) 654-2609

Orthodontics

Relationship/Intimacy Education

Independent Pathways (317) 740-7537 www.independent pathways.com

School

Dynamic Minds Academy (317) 578-0410

Spelling to Communicate Exceptional Minds LLC (317) 408-3990

The Wellness Blanket

Rapha Wellness (765) 480-1502 thewellnessblanket.com

Vehicle Transportation & Rentals

Superior Van & Mobility (877) 892-6382 superiorvan.com/

Waiver Provider & Employment

Putnam County Comprehensive Services (765) 653-9763 www.pccsinc.org

Special Needs Planning & Elder Law Attorney

INC. SAYS

The N2 Company was named to Inc.’s Best in Business list for Social Good — the authoritative list of companies that make a meaningful impact beyond proﬁt. Here’s the part we’re most proud of: The magazine you’re reading is part of that impact.

Here to help you put plans in place to give you peace of mind. Elizabeth A. Homes is a special needs planning and elder law attorney. She has been licensed and practicing law since May of 2014. Her practice at the Law Office of Elizabeth A. Homes LLC is focused on Special Needs Planning, Guardianships, Elder Law, Estate Planning, and Probate Work. This includes Wills, Powers of Attorney, Advanced Directives, Trusts, Trust Administration, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning, Guardianship, and Probate. She is admitted to practice law in the State of Indiana. We ask "What If?" so you don't have to ask "What Now?"

Read how THIS magazine is part of something bigger.

Elizabeth A. Homes, Esq., MBA ehomeslaw.com | 317-660-5004 elizabeth@ehomeslaw.com 9245 N. Meridian Street, Suite 301, Indianapolis, Indiana 46260

Uniquely You Indy

September 2026

The JD Angels Family Care program is dedicated to providing comprehensive services and resources for individuals with intellectual disabilities. We support clients who are disabled, handicapped, elderly, or senior citizens. Our mission is to enhance clients' interpersonal skills, abilities, living conditions, mental well-being, and daily living skills. We specialize in oﬀering luxury housing within our wellness program to ensure a safe, clean, and stimulating environment that promotes mental health and overall well-being. Our primary goals are to improve clients' social skills, daily living abilities, and service plans while respecting their rights, responsibilities, and treatment plans.

Daily Living Skills Include: Personal Hygiene & Grooming Dressing & Undressing Meal Preparation Mobility & Transfers Toileting Assistance Housekeeping Laundry Home Safety Companionship Medication Management Social Skills Development

VISIT US

Home Care Information: (317) 314-8144 Transportation Services: (317) 314-8464 General Inquiries: (317) 314-8140 contactus@jdangelsfamilycare.com www.jdangelsfamilycare.com Uniquely You Indy

9151 Currency St. Irving, TX 75063 Celebrating the Disability Community in Indy counties

Mobile Service We'll come to you!

Schedule Service

Let us come to you for your routine maintenance, our technicians can perform a lot of the same services remotely that we do in the dealership. From oil and ﬁlter changes to brakes, batteries, tire rotation, and more, our professionals will do their thing. And free you up to do yours. That's ownership built around you.

317-764-7001 | tomwoodford.com/mobileservice