Celebrate Differences

03/17/2026

03/05/2026

Yesterday, board members Pam Stineman and Cindy Fifield had the honor of speaking to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, sharing the impact Celebrate Differences is making in our community.

Thank you to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs for the opportunity to speak.

02/28/2026

What a GREAT day at the M.O.R.E. Program! 🎉
Today we celebrated birthdays and made some amazing memories together! 🎂🎈

We also rolled up our sleeves and got to work on important life skills — budgeting, spending wisely, and learning how to make smart money choices. 💵🛒 Building independence happens one skill at a time, and our participants are doing an incredible job!

And the best news? The M.O.R.E. Program is growing — 18 in attendance today! 🙌 We are so proud of the confidence, friendships, and independence that continue to grow each week.

Celebrate Differences is all about creating opportunities for ability, achievement, and joy — and today was a perfect example of that in action. 💙

02/23/2026

Great information from the transition fair!

LAKE COUNTY SCHOOLS TRANSITION INFORMATION AND RESOURCES GUIDE FOR AGES 12 – 22 Secondary transition refers to the process a student with a disability goes through as they move from high school to whatever comes next, including postsecondary education, employment and independent living. In Fl...

02/23/2026

It’s National Pinocchio Day — and we’re not lying! 👃

Fact: People with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive when they have opportunities to learn, connect, and contribute.
Fact: Community programs build confidence, independence, friendships, and joy.
Fact: Inclusion makes life better for everyone.
At Celebrate Differences, we see it happen through our programs like M.O.R.E. (More Opportunities for Rewarding Experiences), social events, skill-building activities, and family supports. The growth, smiles, and achievements are real.
No fairy tales here — just real people, real opportunities, and real impact.

02/21/2026

On Thursday, Ryan and I visited the transition fair at Lake Sumter State College to learn about resources available for families.

02/17/2026

Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day!

At Celebrate Differences, kindness is at the heart of everything we do. A smile, a helping hand, an invitation to belong — small actions can make a big difference.
Join us today by spreading kindness in your community and helping create a world where everyone feels valued and included. 💫

Drop a comment below and let us know how you showed kindness today!

02/16/2026

🎉 20 Years of Impact – 20 Things to Celebrate!

Today we’re celebrating something extra special. Our very own Ryan Christiansen — the inspiration behind Celebrate Differences — was featured on the front page for attending the Tim Tebow Foundation Night to Shine prom along with his Queen Amanda!

Did you know Celebrate Differences has proudly hosted 4 proms for individuals with special needs? Seeing Ryan shining so brightly and representing inclusion, joy, and community reminds us exactly why we do what we do every single day.
Way to go, Ryan! You inspire us to dream bigger, love louder, and keep creating unforgettable moments. 💙

Here’s to many more celebrations, more opportunities, and more lives touched.

02/14/2026

02/14/2026

What a day of fun at Celebrate Differences! 🎉
From exciting bingo games and parachute play to amazing treats, there were smiles everywhere and a fun time was had by all. Moments like these remind us how powerful community can be.
A HUGE shout out to all the moms and dads who jumped in to help, and a special thank you to our new volunteer, Miss Ramona, for stepping up and helping make the party such a success. It truly takes a village, and we are so grateful for each and every person who gives their time, energy, and heart to Celebrate Differences.
Thank you for being part of our family ❤️
Stay tuned for more fun to come!