LETTER: Help disabled people among us enrich our diverse community

To Ozaukee Press:

For the more than 10 million people with developmental disabilities and their families, respect and understanding is hard won and is possible only by changing attitudes and creating opportunity. At times, people with disabilities, in order to participate fully in their communities, require supports for their special needs. Yet individuals with these needs want to live full, healthy, social and productive lives. So it is important for all community members to become more aware of the abilities and contributions of people with developmental disabilities.

Reach out to someone with special needs and carry out an act of kindness, offer a helping hand, spend time getting to know someone, volunteer together or offer an invitation to a civic group or club to which you belong.

Let’s open our hearts and minds to a community of acceptance, inclusion and positive change. Let’s avoid blame and shame by providing instruction, guidance, support and friendship instead.

At Portal Inc., we annually assist more than 200 developmentally disabled individuals who reside in Ozaukee County by providing instruction, guidance, experiences and support while working, being a customer, volunteering, recreating and learning life skills. Many people with disabilities have much to offer when given the opportunities, support and encouragement.

It takes a community. Be a part of it and help others to be.

Carole Stuebe
Executive director
Portal Inc.
Grafton