The InVisionary

If we had our way, we’d remove a month and have an extra July instead. Here at InVision, it’s our favorite time of year – not for the sunshine or the start of a new fiscal year, but as the home of the month-long commemoration of Disability Pride Month. As an organization that provides services and supports to people who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), July is a month we observe with pride as we celebrate people of all abilities for their resilience, achievements, and contributions to society. 

While Disability Pride Month’s significance on the scale in which it is recognized today began in 2015, its origins date back to the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. Established to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities and provide equal opportunities in the everyday aspects of life – including access to public spaces, community involvement, housing, employment, and purchasing goods and services – the ADA is celebrating its 35th anniversary on July 26 this year. 
 

Calling for Action

Recognized by The Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates, the 2025 Disability Pride Month theme of “We Belong Here, and We’re Here to Stay” is a call to action at its core. People who experience disabilities are valued community members, colleagues, friends, and loved ones. Many enjoy gardening, cooking, travel, desire to have a successful career and a supportive workplace, as well as learning and growth opportunities. Many are talented artists, singers, and musicians. They have hobbies, interests, routines, hopes, dreams, and emotions the same as anyone else. 

Amid the current threats to disability rights, Medicaid, community supports and services, and more, the Disability Pride movement remains of the highest importance. It is impossible to ignore the heaviness of the current political climate, and the exhaustion felt by many. Now more than ever, it is crucial that we amplify our advocacy and stand up to injustices in any way or capacity we are able. We urge the people we support and their families, our team members, donors, vendors, constituents and others to continue their efforts. Whether it be learning and education, hosting events, reinforcing commitments to inclusive programs, donating to organizations and causes, reaching out to representatives, or connecting with others and everything in between – we all have a pivotal role to play.
 

InVision Stories

Every person – with disabilities and without – has their own journey, and their own life story. As July is a time to highlight stories within the disability community, we would like to take a moment to amplify some of the success stories of the people we support at InVision. 
 

Trevor 

When faced with challenges regarding his health and weight, Trevor worked attentively to create healthy habits for himself – implementing improved personal and home hygiene, healthier eating, and even took efforts to start his own garden. As a result, Trevor has gained confidence in himself and his appearance. 

Read more about Trevor’s story, here: Trevor’s Inspiring Journey to Health and Happiness.
 

Rebecca

Turnover within the role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) can be incredibly challenging for people supported, as each relationship is built with diligence and trust. When changes occurred within her support staff resulting in the loss of a DSP who supported her for a decade, Rebecca faced a time of hardship and was enrolled in a program with a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Team (DDTT). This program provided Rebecca with various resources on emotional guidance and taught her healthy coping skills. After overcoming this adversity, Rebecca and her support team celebrated her success and graduation from the program! 

Read more about Rebecca’s resilience, here: Celebrating Rebecca's Success Amid DSP Turnover.
 

Emily 

Emily, a person supported who uses a wheelchair, finds immense joy in the swimming pool – a hobby she formed with her mom in the past. In addition to bringing out Emily’s blissful smile, swimming is how she exercises her legs to avoid stiffness and muscle cramps, and encourages her to get involved in her local community. Recognizing these benefits, Emily’s support staff made it a priority to secure a pool membership through InVision Foundation so she can enjoy the water on a weekly basis. 
 
Read more about Emily’s story, here: Supporting Lives Spent Meaningfully.
 

Donte 

Significant life changes, including positive ones, can be overwhelming for anyone. When Donte began receiving support through InVision a little over a year ago, the transition came with challenges. Through perseverance and bravery, Donte was able to find his footing again and is highly regarded among InVision team members for the great strides he has made. Less than a year in, Donte was able to share his light as a talented singer in a performance at a local talent show, where he won an award for his performance. 

Read more about Donte’s transition, here: Donte Embraces Change.
 

Terry

Most recently, Terry – a person supported by InVision for the last 12 years – was recognized within his community for his many accomplishments. With great dedication to leading a happier and healthier life, coupled with support and resources among his support team at InVision, Terry was able to overcome past hardships and behavioral challenges. Some of his achievements include creating routines, budgeting, building stronger relationships, and community involvement.

Read more about Terry’s success, here: Shaping Program Collaboration at InVision.

InVision is incredibly proud of the people we support, and beyond grateful to provide person-centered supports and customized services that allow them to live a life that is meaningful to them. We are incredibly thankful to members of our coalition, our team, families of people supported, and donors who help make our programs and services possible.

For more person supported success stories, check out the Stories page on our website. 
 

Resources

Educate, amplify, and make your voice heard using the resources below.

Learn more about Disability Pride Month:
 

• Why and How to Celebrate Disability Pride Month – The Arc 
• Disability Pride Month: Acknowledging Our History, Value, Rights, and Justice – the Center for People with Disabilities 
• Everything to Know About the Disability Pride Flag and Disability Pride Month – Woman’s Day
• Embracing Identity and Celebrating Heritage – InVision Human Services 
• Celebrating Disability Pride Month – InVision Human Services 

Reach out to your Representatives opposing harmful budget cuts: 
 

• American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) Amplifier
• The Arc For People With Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities 
• National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)

Additional Resources: 
 

• Trans Lifeline 
• The Trevor Project
• National Immigration Law Center

It’s never too late to get involved. Stay safe, relentless, and resilient – we are in this together. Happy Disability Pride Month, from everyone at InVision!