Impact of Oregon

12/26/2025

A new year is almost here, and we’re looking forward to all the great things ahead. We’re grateful for our IMPACT community and the compassion, dedication, and heart you bring into every day. Here’s to another year of shared impact, progress, and possibility!

Want to learn about IMPACT or how to get involved? Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

12/23/2025

We can't wait to hear all your stories!

12/18/2025

Breaking Barriers Beyond Earth — A Historic First for Disability Inclusion

For the first time in history, a person who uses a wheelchair is preparing to fly into space — marking a powerful milestone for disability inclusion, accessibility, and representation worldwide.

Aerospace engineer Michaela “Michi” Benthaus, who sustained a spinal cord injury in a mountain biking accident, will travel aboard a Blue Origin spaceflight, proving that people with disabilities belong in every space — including space exploration.

Michi’s journey highlights what’s possible when barriers are removed and inclusive opportunities are created. Her story is a reminder that disability does not limit potential, ambition, or achievement — access and support make all the difference.

At IMPACT, we celebrate moments like this that challenge assumptions, elevate representation, and reinforce our belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, pursue their passions, and thrive — on Earth and beyond. 🌍✨

Read the full article here: https://abcnews.go.com/US/1st-time-person-wheelchair-fly-space/story?id=128483608

Want to learn more about IMPACT or how to get involved? Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

Blue Origin will make history when it sends the first person who uses a wheelchair into space on its next mission.

12/14/2025

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
Like many kids, Walker looks forward to bowling each week, and afternoons at the Klamath Falls Epicenter is his favorite part of the week. Bowling gives him the chance to have fun, stay active, and enjoy time in his community doing something he truly loves.

Walker is Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled, and these meaningful community outings are made possible through the support of his IMPACT of Oregon Direct Support Professional (DSP), Madisen. With patience and encouragement, Madisen helps Walker navigate his environment, build confidence, and fully participate in activities that bring him joy.

At IMPACT of Oregon, we believe individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) deserve access to experiences that help them thrive. For Walker, it’s simple — time with Madisen, a bowling ball in hand, and the excitement of chasing that perfect strike.

Want to learn more about IMPACT or how to get involved? Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

12/11/2025

📬✨ Impact of Oregon – December Newsletter Is Here! ✨📬

Our final newsletter of 2025 is packed with big wins, bright beginnings, and all the exciting things happening across Impact of Oregon as we wrap up the year. From new office expansions to welcoming new families and DSPs, this has truly been a year of growth and gratitude. 💛

Inside the December Newsletter, you’ll find:

🌟 Big Wins & Bright Beginnings: A look back at 2025 and all we’ve achieved together
🎄 December Events: Holiday fun happening in Jackson, Josephine and Lane Counties
🌟🔦 DSPs & Client Spotlight 🔦🌟 Each month, we love celebrating the incredible relationships that make Impact of Oregon so special.
❄️ Winter Safety Tips: Helpful reminders to keep you and your loved ones safe this season

We’re so grateful for every member of the Impact of Oregon community. Thank you for being part of our journey and get ready, because 2026 has even more in store!

Check out the full newsletter below!
👇✨

12/09/2025

A Historic Win for Disability Inclusion in the Arts

The art world made history this week as Nnena Kalu became the first artist with a learning disability to win the Turner Prize. Known for her powerful, layered sculptures and expressive installations, Nnena’s work highlights the creativity, vision, and talent of neurodiverse artists on a global stage.

This landmark moment is more than an award — it’s a reminder that individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) deserve visibility, opportunity, and representation in every field, including the arts. Nnena’s win shows the world that creativity has no limits, and that people of all abilities bring extraordinary perspectives worth celebrating.

At IMPACT of Oregon, we champion inclusion, empowerment, and community support for individuals with IDD every day. Stories like Nnena’s inspire us to continue advocating for accessibility and meaningful opportunities for all.

Inclusion matters. Representation matters. And accomplishments like this deserve to be seen and celebrated.

Read the full article here: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/dec/09/nnena-kalu-first-artist-learning-disability-win-turner-prize

Want to learn more about IMPACT or how to get involved?
Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

Chair of 2025 judging panel says win ‘begins to erase that border between the neurotypical and neurodiverse artist’

12/06/2025

Rolling Toward Inclusion — One Joyful Ride at a Time

Eight-year-old Lloyd Pinn is inspiring people everywhere by showing what’s possible through adaptive sports, inclusive recreation, and strong community support.

Lloyd, who is non-mobile and non-verbal due to a rare genetic condition, recently experienced skateboarding for the very first time thanks to an innovative, all-ability adaptive skate frame. This accessible design makes it possible for children with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, or special needs to safely enjoy movement, play, and outdoor activities.

Moments like this reflect exactly what we believe at IMPACT of Oregon: true inclusion happens when we remove barriers, build accessible environments, and give every person the chance to participate, explore, and shine.

Stories like Lloyd’s highlight the power of disability inclusion, adaptive equipment, and community-driven support. When individuals are given what they need to succeed, their abilities — not their challenges — take center stage. ❤️💙

Here's the link to the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/dec/03/eight-year-old-with-disability-learns-skateboarding

Want to learn more about IMPACT or how to get involved?
Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

Children with severe disabilities rarely get a chance to have fun like other kids, but with support and some creative thinking, Lloyd Pinn is out at the skate park and enjoying taking risks

12/02/2025

GROCERY TRIPS | Confidence and the IMPACT of Support!

For many people, a trip to the grocery store is quick and routine. But for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)—like Cat—this simple errand can feel overwhelming. Crowded aisles, sensory challenges, and unfamiliar environments can turn an everyday task into a major hurdle.

That’s why Cat relies on her IMPACT of Oregon Direct Support Professional, Rebbekah. As Cat’s DSP, Rebbekah supports her with travel, community navigation, and building real-world skills, helping her gain confidence and independence one outing at a time. Together, they turn challenging moments into empowering opportunities.

At IMPACT of Oregon, we believe every individual deserves patient, compassionate support—and every DSP deserves recognition for the incredible work they do. If your loved one could benefit from the guidance of a dedicated DSP like Rebbekah, we’re here to help.

Want to learn more, or how to get involved with IMPACT?
Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

11/26/2025

𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵, 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 — 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 💪✨

We love seeing new spaces that center inclusion and empower people of all abilities. In San Diego, a new adaptive fitness program called Special Strong is opening doors for individuals with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities.

Created by a group of friends — including two moms of children with autism — the program offers accessible group fitness, personal training, and even aquatic classes designed to support every participant’s unique needs. It’s all about belonging, confidence, and celebrating what each person can do.

At IMPACT of Oregon, we’re inspired by this kind of community-led inclusion. When fitness, friendship, and support come together, people thrive — and that’s exactly what we strive to create every day.

Read the full article here: https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/11/20/special-strong-adaptive-fitness-program-people-with-disabilities

Want to learn more or how to get involved with IMPACT? Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

Kids and seniors with physical or cognitive challenges can get free personal training at local gyms.

11/23/2025

COOKIES | Care and the Power for Family Support

Zach is a wrestler. A dog lover. And a certified Cookie Monster. He’s full of personality and heart — and like many people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, he thrives when he has the right support.

For years, his mom Candice faced the difficult balance of caring for Zach while also wanting to continue her career as a nurse. Thanks to IMPACT of Oregon, she no longer has to choose. Today, she proudly supports Zach as his Direct Support Professional, bringing her compassion, medical skills, and dedication into a role that strengthens their bond every day.

And Zach? He’s been busy — especially in the kitchen, where he’s been wrestling (and taste-testing) every cookie in sight. With the right support, confidence grows, independence builds, and sweet moments like these happen all the time.

Want to learn more, or how to get involved with IMPACT? Click here : https://www.impact-or.org/

11/17/2025

A Father’s Marathon of Love and Strength 💙

We were truly inspired by the story of Dr. Larue Fitch, a dedicated elementary school principal who completed the New York City Marathon in honor of his 9-year-old son, Josiah, who has cerebral palsy.

Dr. Fitch began running to support his own mental health — but after Josiah’s diagnosis, every mile took on new meaning. He now runs to honor his son’s resilience, determination, and the challenges he works through every single day.

One of the most powerful moments of the race came when Josiah FaceTimed his dad mid-run, giving him the encouragement he needed to push through the toughest miles. Dr. Fitch went on to finish the marathon in under four hours — a personal best — and returned to school the next morning to proudly share the accomplishment with his students.

At IMPACT of Oregon, we celebrate families, caregivers, educators, and advocates who go the extra mile — literally and figuratively — for children with disabilities. Their strength reminds us why inclusion, support, and community matter so deeply.

Read the full article here: https://people.com/chicago-principal-runs-marathon-for-son-with-cerebral-palsy-exclusive-11845955 #:~:text=Dr.%20Larue%20Fitch%2C%20an%20elementary,up%20and%20running%20every%20day.

Want to learn more or how to get involved? Click here: https://www.impact-or.org/

Dr. Larue Fitch recently completed his 14th marathon. The Chicago principal now had a newfound motivation to run for his 9-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, he tells PEOPLE.

11/15/2025

🌟 Impact Food Drive – Helping Our Community One Bag at a Time! 🌟

We’re proud to support our Impact customers and DSPs with grab-and-go food bags filled with pantry staples, canned goods, and more!

📍 Pick-Up Locations:

Impact of Oregon Jackson County: 3539 Heathrow Way Ste 201
Impact of Oregon Josephine County: 1547 NE F Strret
Impact of Oregon Douglas County: 2198 NE Stephens St. Ste 202
Impact of Oregon Lane County: 2139 Centennial Plaza
Impact of Oregon Klamath County: 409 Pine St

🕘 Available Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM (Begining Friday, November 7th)

🍎 Want to Get Involved?
We’re accepting non-perishable food donations — every can, bag, and box makes a difference!

💙 Thank you for helping us Impact lives one person at a time.

Need additional food resources in your area?
👉 foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org

👉 oregon.gov/odhs/food