MassFamilies
Access to Community and Friendship is a wonderful example of family leadership in action. After connecting through MassFamilies’ Family Leadership Series, families recognized how difficult it was to find social and recreational opportunities that could accommodate their loved ones. Rather than waiting for existing systems to create something, they came together and built their own community.
With an initial $5,000 grant, Access to Community and Friendship began creating regular inclusive gatherings where people with disabilities can meet, have fun, and build friendships. Board member, Lisa Sims, shared that the group has become “like a little family,” giving participants something to look forward to each month.
Perhaps the impact is best captured by Austin Carr’s experience: another participant told Austin he was his “hero” because seeing Austin socialize and make connections helped him believe that he could make friends, too.
MassFamilies looks forward to helping Access to Community and Friendship share their story—and hopefully inspire families across Massachusetts to create similar opportunities in their own communities.
Paul Spooner Generational Leadership
Access 2 Community and Friendship leaders Elizabeth Gray, Tatiana Thomas, and Austin Carr were invited by the Paul W Spooner Leadership Conference to lead a team building activity. They knew it had to be fun and creative. As a group they decided on a hands-on art project using recycled materials. Everyone jumped in, shared ideas, laughed, and discovered how well they could work together.
They encouraged participants to reflect on how effectively their teams could communicate, plan, and co-create.
The activity highlighted the importance of cooperation, active listening, and mutual empowerment. It was inspiring to observe how participants combined imagination and teamwork. The room was full of energy and connection.
It was amazing to see the groups brainstorm. At the end we felt empowered and inspired and reminded when we listen and support each other we can turn simple materials into beautiful creations.
Institute on Community Integration
A2CF had the opportunity to write an article for the Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota. It was for their Impact Paper. The article was on loneliness, one of the motivators for starting our organization. We’re very excited to post the article here for all to read. We hope you enjoy the article!
READ ARTICLE »
Good Vibe
This morning we spoke to our good friend Austin who told us about a new program he has helped develop called Access 2 Community & Friendship. Access 2 Community and Friendship – is a Boston-based social group/club comprised of young adults with disabilities 22+ years of age. Events are designed by young adults with disabilities to promote accessible social events in the community spaces with universal access for all.
Brain Shapes
FROM: SELF-ADVOCACY WINS
FROM: THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE
What started in a garage has grown into a movement of joy and belonging. When the pandemic highlighted isolation in our community, Andrew, Austin, Tatiana, and Lizzie created a space where young adults of all abilities could connect and thrive. Through free, accessible events, A2CAF is weaving a vibrant social fabric where everyone belongs-from museum trips to baseball games, they’re proving that friendship knows no bounds. One gathering at a time, they’re building a more connected Cambridge.