On a March 23, runners from all over the country took to the rainy street of Arlington to celebrate independence, Texas Independence and independently for people with disabilities. The second annual race grossed over 1200 runners at the Ballpark in Arlington and hosted a satellite race for 150 men and women in the United States Army at Camp Phoenix in Kabul, Afghanistan.... more >>

 

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Dallas, TX —On November 15^th, Ability Connection held its fifth annual Vine and Dine event in the Zodiac Room at Neiman Marcus Downtown. This year’s event, which raised over $185,000, was co-chaired by Jane and William Corbellini, Susan and Gene Palma, and Pam and Vin Perella. The Master of Ceremonies was the ever–entertaining Ron Corning of WFAA’s News 8 Daybreak. Honorary chairs for this year’s event were Meredith and Jack Woodworth, who were recognized for their outstanding contributions to our community.... more >>

 

Dallas, TX — On Saturday, October 27^th The Ability Connection board members and family hosted a Barbeque for the residents of Bolivar, Citation and Jubilee group homes in celebration of “Make–A–Difference Day”. The festivities included BINGO, craft activities and hot bogs and hamburgers served fresh off the grill. A special Thank You to the Board of Directors for sponsoring this event.... more >>

 

October 17^th, 2012 (Desoto, TX) — Ability Connection presented Solar Turbines (Desoto Plant) with a plaque in recognition of Solar Turbines’ continued support of Ability Connection’s services for children and adults with disabilities. Both the Desoto Plant and Mabank Plant of Solar Turbines are valued partners of Ability Connection.... more >>

 

July 17^th, 2012 (Dallas, TX) — Solar Turbines presented Ability Connection’s Board of Directors with a $10,000 check in support of AC’s services for children and adults with disabilities. Solar Turbines is a valued partner of Ability Connection, who works to support individuals with disabilities who are served by the organization.... more >>

 

(September 18, 2012) Dallas, TX. —
Sterling Society members visited Ability Connection to present a check in the amount of $20,250. The check was for proceeds from the group’s annual Charity Ball that took place on March 10th at the Crowne Plaza in Addision, Texas. Each year, the group organizes a masquerade-themed ball that benefits the important programs provided to children with disabilities by Ability Connection Texas. The Sterling Society announced that its next annual Charity Ball will be held on May 4^th, 2013. Save the date!... more >>

 

September 7, 2012 (Dallas, TX) —
On August 25^th, Bill participated in the Hotter’n Hell Hundred for the 14th time. Each year, Bill participates in this 100 mile bike trek in Wichita Falls in order to raise funds for Ability Connection Texas. We would like to extend a very special thank you to everyone who donated to “Bill’s Ride” this year! Your support raised over $5,500 — which helps Ability Connection serve more children and adults with disabilities that need our help!... more >>

 

September 4-5, 2012
Four Seasons Resort and Club, Las Colinas
4th Annual Circle K Southwest Golf Tournament benefiting Ability Connection

Circle K will bring together its regional partners for a fun-filled, two-day event in Dallas that features a silent auction and a golf tournament. The 4^th annual golf tournament benefits Ability Connection and its services for children and adults with disabilities. Funds raised go toward services and supports for individuals living in Circle K’s Southwest Region – Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas.... more >>

 

July 26, 2012 — Today is an Independence Day celebration for more than 50 million American children and adults with disabilities. On this date in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, eliminating discrimination in employment, transportation and public accommodations.

In addition to the very important “breaking down” of physical barriers such as curb cuts, ramped access to buildings, automatic opening doors and accessible public transportation, there is another legacy of the ADA. People with disabilities have equal rights and opportunities to pursue their dreams. Americans are increasingly looking beyond a disability – physical and cognitive – to see people like themselves, who each day seek the same opportunity for rewarding jobs and fulfilling lives.

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July 1^st, 2012 (Dallas, TX) ’ Ability Connection is pleased to announce we are now part of the Community Health Charities (CHC) affiliate network. Community Health Charities is a federation of trusted and well–respected health charities that have joined together to raise contributions in the workplace. CHC has over 50 years of experience in workplace giving campaigns and is a member of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance.

Ability Connection is proud to join Community Health Charities in providing a choice to workplace giving campaigns – and a focus on something important to us all – health! For more information on CHC’s workplace giving campaign or how to designate your funds to Ability Connection, contact CHC Texas at (817) 997-4413 or visit http://Texas.HealthCharities.org.... more >>

 

June 28^th, 2012 (Dallas, TX) —Students that attend Ability Connection’s Early Childhood Development and Education Center are enjoying an additional treat this summer in the form of swim therapy. Students are attending swim therapy this summer two times a week in the accessible pool of our local YMCA. In addition to putting a smile on their faces, being in the water has enabled these children to move more freely and has enhanced their overall wellbeing. We would like to thank Wells Fargo for providing the funding to make this program possible and thank the Park Cities YMCA for hosting our students! ... more >>

 

June 15 (Flag Day) through Independence Day (July 4th) Circle K stores throughout Texas will be selling Flag decorations for a dollar donation. This “independence” celebration is way for Circle K and its customers to raise funds to help children and adults with disabilities in the communities where they live and work.

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April 23^rd, 2012 (Fort Worth, TX) —

Recently a group of individuals representing Ability Connection Texas (ACT) volunteered at the Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) to help raise funds to support the organization’s important programs and services. The group of caring individuals volunteered their time to serve food and beverages during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500. During the event the volunteers had the opportunity to meet Tony Stewart, Nascar driver of #14, last years Sprint Cup Series Race Car Champion. The funds raised through this and other fundraisers are important to ACT’s mission and will help continue the services provided to people with physical and intellectual disabilities as they strive to achieve their highest level of independence. Thanks to everyone who joined us during at TMS, we appreciate your support!... more >>

 

April 09^th, 2012 Washington, DC) —

The White House | Office of the Press Secretary | For Immediate Release

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Our Nation has been profoundly shaped by ordinary Americans who have volunteered their time and energy to overcome extraordinary challenges. From the American Revolution and the Seneca Falls Convention to the everyday acts of compassion and purpose that move millions to make change in their communities, our Nation has always been at its best when individuals have come together to realize a common vision. As we continue to pursue progress, service and social innovation will play an essential role in achieving our highest ambitions -- from a world-class education for every child to an economy built to last. During National Volunteer Week, we pay tribute to all who give of themselves to keep America strong, and we renew the spirit of service that has enriched our country for generations.... more >>

 

March 17^th 2012 (Dallas, TX) — The Lone Star Race has been chosen as one of North Texas’ best Spring and Summer runs by CBS Channel 11! In it’s inaugural year, The Lone Star Race, benefiting Ability Connection Texas has been mentioned along with such stalwart events as the White Rock Marathon as “must do” race in 2012. Check out the announcement on the CBS/DFW Best of Home page ... more >>

 

March 5, 2012 (Arlington, TX) — National recording artist, Mark David Manders will be headlining the After Party at this year’s Lone Star Race, benefiting Ability Connection Texas. A mainstay in the Texas country music scene, Manders will be entertaining runners, supporters and country music fans alike, during the race’s Rip-Roarin’ After Party on March 31^st at the Ballpark in Arlington.

The Lone Star Race is a one–of–a–kind competitive 5K and 10K run on US Track and Field certified race-courses, beginning at The Ballpark and weaving through some of Texas’ most well known venues — like Cowboys Stadium and Six Flags. The finish line is back at The Ballpark, located right by the After Party festivities, sponsored by Coors Distributing of Fort Worth.

The Lone Star Race is quickly becoming a “must do” for serious runners as well as those who just want to stay fit. Proceeds from the event will support Ability Connection Texas, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, that helps people with disabilities throughout Texas reach their highest level of independence.

For more information on the Lone Star Race visit www.TheLoneStarRace.org or call (214) 351-2500.... more >>

 

Dallas, TX (January 26, 2012) — Ability Connection Texas (ACT) continues its Technology Initiative, now in its second year of providing a voice for those who cannot speak. This innovative program is available to individuals with disabilities living in the North, Central and Western regions of Texas (additional markets to follow) and helps make assistive communication technology more accessible to those living with disabilities. ACT’s Technology Initiative provides individuals the opportunity to receive an iPad^® with a series of special augmentative communication software at no cost. The assistive technology items will be awarded to a limited number of individuals based on a competitive application process and devices are awarded on a quarterly-basis.

The Technology Initiative of Ability Connection Texas (ACT) is made possible by support from Circle K. For more information about ACT’s Technology Initiative or to download an application, click here.... more >>

 

DALLAS, TX(November 29, 2011) — Ability Connection Texas received a generous grant from the Speedway Children’s Charities during its annual Christmas tree lighting at Texas Motor Speedway in which more than $800,000 in grant monies was awarded to 22 deserving Dallas/Fort Worth organizations. The festivities began with the traditional lighting of “The Biggest Living Christmas Tree in Texas,” a 56-foot tall Douglas fir tree presented by Ben E. Keith. “This award will assist Ability Connection Texas with upgrading our assessment tools that enable our teachers to provide better curriculums to our students with disabilities” said ACT Director of Education Barbra Cravey. “Grants like this can be the life blood for insuring children with disabilities have the best possible chance for life-long success,” Cravey said. Ability Connection Texas is dedicated to providing people with physical and intellectual disabilities the highest level of independence.... more >>

 

El Paso, TX (October 27, 2011) — The El Paso region of Ability Connection Texas awarded iPads® with special augmentative communication software to recipients from the second cycle of its El Paso Technology Initiative on October 26, 2011 at a reception at the Hyatt Place Airport. Among the recipients were Socorro and Humberto, who were recommended for device placements by their Speech and Language Pathologists. Both individuals expressed excitement at the new opportunities for communication and independence these placements will bring. During the event, Ability Connection also announced that, through its Technology Initiative, the organization will provide periodic workshops to assistive device users, their families and therapists beginning in 2012. Ability Connection Texas is partnering with the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) School of Health Sciences to bring these workshops to the local community.... more >>

 

DALLAS, TX (September 27, 2011) — Nordstrom employees from North Park Mall recently visited Ability Connection Texas and hosted an onsite carnival for children and adults with disabilities as part of their United Way Day of Caring. Volunteers decorated, popped popcorn and set up and hosted games such as: Big Pin Bowling, knock a block, Wheel of fortune, face painting, swirl art and more. Dressed in silly hats, glasses and colorful wigs, the Nordstrom group ensured a good time was had by all. Carnival participants were able to redeem coupons for fun prizes, and the event’s finale included a surprise appearance by “Debbie the Clown” of Xtreme Kidz Ntertainment who pulled a rabbit from her hat. Ability Connection Texas would like to thank Nordstrom for donating their time and for making the carnival day a very special day for everyone!... more >>

 

Today is an Independence Day celebration for more than 50 million American children and adults with disabilities. On this date in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, eliminating discrimination in employment, transportation and public accommodations.

In addition to the very important "breaking down" of physical barriers such as curb cuts, ramped access to buildings, automatic opening doors and accessible public transportation, there is another legacy of the ADA.

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DALLAS, TX (June 30^th, 2011) — The EnAble Team from PepsiCo visited Ability Connection Texas with a cookout luncheon and Independence Day parade featuring Chester the Cheetah and Therapy Dogs Koda and Cagney. ACT clients enjoyed hot dogs, PepsiCo snacks and beverages and patriotic music as they celebrated independence for people with disabilities.... more >>

 

EL PASO, TX (June 9^th, 2011) — Ability Connection Texas (ACT) unveiled its El Paso Technology Initiative during a press conference at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) in the Morgan-Roderick Auditorium. This new program of ACT, in partnership with UTEP’s College of Health Sciences, provides assistive communication technology to individuals with communication-related disabilities. ACT’s El Paso Technology Initiative is made possible by support from Circle K.... more >>

 

DALLAS, TX (June 15^th, 2011) —For over half a century, Ability Connection Texas (ACT) has been providing a full range of services for people with physical and intellectual disabilities as they strive to achieve their highest level of independence.... more >>

 

DALLAS, TX (February 22, 2011) —Circle K stores throughout the Southwest raise funds to benefit Ability Connection through their in-store canister program. Proceeds help deliver vital services to children and adults with disabilities in the region.... more >>

 

Thursday, April 28th, 2011, was an exciting day in Dallas! Matthew Barker (14) was given an iPad® with special communication software as part of the North Texas Technology Initiative of Ability Connection Texas (ACT). Matthew has cerebral palsy and is unable to communicate verbally. The adaptive device donation from ACT will give Matthew a voice and allow him to communicate independently with those around him for the first time in his life.... more >>

 

Every homeowner knows that it's important to tune up the central air and get it ready for summer.

This summer Comfort Experts is offering the service for only $39 (It's normally $79). The best part is that when you write the check you actually will write the check for $39 directly to Ability Connection Texas! 100% of the tune up cost goes toward programs and services for individuals with disabilities right here in Texas.... more >>

 

Recently, members of Cold Springs Church of Christ donated hand-made bears and visited clients at Ability Connection Texas, demonstrating their church’s care for people with disabilities.

Ability Connection Texas wishes to thank the members of Cold Springs Church of Christ for their generosity and their ongoing support for people with disabilities.

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NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK, 2011

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

America's story has been marked by the service of volunteers.  Generations of selfless individuals from all walks of life have served each other and our Nation, each person dedicated to making tomorrow better than today.  They exemplify the quintessential American idea that we can change things, make things better, and solve problems when we work together.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our schools and shelters, hospitals and hotlines, and faith-based and community groups.  From mentoring at-risk youth and caring for older Americans to supporting our veterans and military families and rebuilding after disasters, these everyday heroes make a real and lasting impact on the lives of millions of women and men across the globe.

Last year, nearly 63 million Americans gave of themselves through service.  Their compassion is a testament to the generosity of the American spirit.  In difficult times, Americans are coming together -- tackling our challenges instead of ignoring them -- and renewing the principle that we are our brother's keeper and our sister's keeper.

Today, as many Americans face hardship, we need volunteers more than ever.  Service opportunities tap the energy and ingenuity of our greatest resource -- the American people -- to improve our neighborhoods and our world.  My Administration is committed to investing in community solutions and increasing opportunities for Americans to serve.  The bipartisan Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act strengthened the programs of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which engage millions of citizens each year in service through Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America.  We are building the capacity of organizations and communities to tackle their own problems by investing in social innovation and volunteer cultivation.  And through United We Serve, a national call to service, we are making it easier for women and men of all ages to find volunteer opportunities or create their own projects where they see a need.

During National Volunteer Week, we celebrate the profound impact of volunteers and encourage all Americans to discover their own power to make a difference.  Every one of us has a role to play in making our communities and our country stronger.  I encourage all Americans to help us renew progress and prosperity and build a brighter future for our Nation by visiting www.Serve.gov to find a local project.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 10 through April 16, 2011, as National Volunteer Week.  I call upon all Americans to observe this week by volunteering in service projects across our country and pledging to make service a part of their daily lives.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

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EL PASO, TX (February 22, 2011) —Circle K stores throughout El Paso and southern New Mexico raise funds to benefit Ability Connection Texas through their in-store canister program. Proceeds help deliver vital services to children and adults with disabilities in the region. ... more >>

 

Ability Connection Texas and the Garland Fire Department's FireForce team up to make the holidays brighter for individuals with disabilities. View Video on WFAA.com... more >>

 

IRA Charitable Rollover and other critical incentives have been reinstated through 2011 as part of the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.... more >>

 

Ability Connection Texas honors Myrna and Bob Schlegel for their philanthropy... more >>

 

Try It (Before You Buy It)
 - Dallas/Ft. Worth Thrive Magazine ... more >>