Gingerbread & Joy

This past weekend, the Cumberland Mall came alive with holiday cheer as families gathered for the Inclusive Play Christmas Party. From heartfelt moments with Sensory Santa to the sparkle of creative crafts and the excitement of festive activities, the event radiated warmth and inclusivity. Children of all ages and abilities shared in the joy of the season, making this celebration a shining example of community, friendship, and holiday spirit!


Attendees were treated to a variety of engaging activities, including ornament making, gingerbread decorating, writing letters to Santa, and exploring a Play-Doh station. The event also featured painting, festive paper crafts, and a bookshelf where children could choose a book to take home and cherish. Watching families come together to create lasting memories underscores the importance of gatherings like this. It was a vivid reminder of the mission of From We Can’t to We Can—to amplify the voices of disabled individuals and advocate for their rights through meaningful representation and inclusive opportunities.


Amanda, a parent in attendance, shared her perspective on why events like these matter: “Events like these are special because special needs kids can come together and be themselves—they can have a safe space.” Reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas, she emphasized that the holiday season isn’t about the gifts under the tree. Instead, it’s about the love shared by those gathered around it.


In closing, Amanda expressed a poignant reminder for everyone: no matter the season, kindness and acceptance should prevail. She encouraged children and adults alike to embrace curiosity and understanding. “Ask questions. Don’t judge,” she said, reminding us all of the transformative power of empathy and inclusion.


This year’s Inclusive Play Christmas Party was a beautiful celebration of joy, community, and the enduring spirit of the season. It left a lasting impression on all who attended and reinforced the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels valued and welcome.

You may want to read more of our blog...

We Can Blog

April 10, 2025
Beyond Awareness: A Historical Significance TJ Edmund, April 2025
By TJ Edmund March 24, 2025
Championing Strength and Resilience
By TJ Edmund March 11, 2025
Empowering Women Changemakers
By TJ Edmund February 28, 2025
Rare, Resilient, Remarkable
By TJ Edmund February 24, 2025
A Huge Reveal
By TJ Edumund February 10, 2025
Superhero Spotlight
By TJ Edmund January 4, 2025
A Christmas To Remember
By TJ Edmund December 12, 2024
The Magic of the Holidays
By TJ Edmund November 6, 2024
A Spooktacular Success: Fall Carnival Fun
By TJ Edmund October 8, 2024
Every October , we commemorate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to bring focus to the countless contributions of disabled individuals in the workforce. However, the path to employment is often a complex journey for many disabled children as they transition into adulthood. From facing systemic barriers in accessing services to navigating the stigma that still persists in much of the professional world, young disabled individuals are too often left to tackle these obstacles without adequate support. This is why early intervention, and the role of non-profit organizations like From We Can't to We Can are vital in ensuring smoother transitions and successful futures for disabled youth. Navigating the Transition to Adulthood Despite progress in disability rights and employment protections, the unemployment rate for disabled individuals remains disproportionately high. Many disabled young adults struggle to find employers willing to accommodate their needs, or worse, encounter workplaces that remain inaccessible or unwelcoming. Without the necessary resources to navigate these obstacles, young disabled people may be left feeling isolated and defeated. Looking Forward: A Call to Action As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, it’s crucial to reflect on how we can better support disabled youth during their most critical transitions. Employers must continue to make strides toward creating inclusive workplaces, while schools and academic institutions need to prioritize early intervention services that prepare disabled children for the workforce long before they reach adulthood. Organizations like From We Can't to We Can prioritize the roles of community and advocacy in shaping the futures of disabled individuals. By investing in these services, we ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive in the workplace and beyond. Battling With Insurance for Medical Equipment Navigating the insurance system to obtain essential medical equipment can feel like an endless uphill battle, especially for families of children with disabilities. Unfortunately, many insurance companies refuse coverage for certain types of medical equipment, leaving families to bear the financial burden. This is where the Resource Recycler program steps in. To date, we have facilitated the exchange of over $55,000 worth of medical equipment, helping over 25 families access the tools they need but cannot afford. Families like Cristal Ojeda’s have shared how this program fills the gap left by their insurance, allowing them to secure crucial equipment during military relocations, while Joann Kover recounts how the program provided support during her grandson’s life and helped her find peace after his passing. It is moments like these that highlight the importance of ensuring that no child’s needs go unmet simply because insurance falls short. Summary Again, it is vital to recognize the crucial role early support plays in empowering disabled youth through their transition to adulthood. The challenges they face—from systemic barriers to navigating a stigmatized workforce—underscore the need for targeted interventions that equip them with the necessary tools and resources for success. Organizations like From We Can't to We Can exemplify the impact of community advocacy in dismantling these obstacles, while initiatives like the Resource Recycler program highlight how we can bridge critical gaps in access to medical equipment. By coming together to prioritize inclusive practices and investment in support services, we can pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all disabled individuals entering the workforce.