Easterseals National Office

A Lasting Bond Gets Forged On The Rink WHEELING — It was at Inclusion on Ice two years ago when Wheeling resident Jessica Waldron realized her 8-year-old daughter, Emma, has a “need for speed.” The inclusive skating event — slated for Feb....

At a recent community skate event co-hosted by Easterseals and the Wheeling Nailers, 10-year-old Emma formed a real bond with team goaltender Taylor Gauthier—“Every time I looked, she just had the biggest smile on her face.”

https://bit.ly/4rAGjiQ

Thank You, Caregivers! On National Caregivers Day, we recognize the parents, family members, and direct support professionals who provide the support that allows children to grow, adults to live independently, and older Americans to age with dignity. Easterseals Logo

On National Caregivers Day, we’re recognizing the parents, family members, and direct support professionals who support independence, opportunity, and dignity every day.

Caregiving is at the heart of Easterseals’ mission, and we’re proud to stand with caregivers across the country.

America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women 2026 As progress toward gender equity remains uneven across the U.S. workforce, some employers are standing out for creating environments where women can truly thrive. That’s why Newsweek, in partnership w...

We’re proud to be named one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women 2026 by Newsweek.

This recognition belongs to the women across our nationwide network and we’re committed to investing in their leadership and growth.

rankings.newsweek.com/americas-gre...

This image shows a smiling individual in a wheelchair next to a swimming pool. They are wearing a green shirt. Text reads: "The therapists have listened to me laugh, held me when I've cried." The image is of Sandy Ford a participant at Easterseals Rehabilitation Center.

For over 100 years, Easterseals has grown alongside the community, expanding services and ensuring care is available so people with disabilities can thrive. Stories like Sandy’s show what’s possible when life-changing services are paired with compassion and dedication.
https://bit.ly/4ampD8P

Tracy Garner is seated in a chair on stage at the National Health Council's 2026 Health Leadership Conference. There is a blue conference banner in the background and a laptop on a small table next to the chair.

The image shows a presentation slide titled "Putting Patients First: OBBBA Implementation and the Health Care Safety Net." It features four individuals with their roles and affiliations: Kelly Brantley, Independent Consultant; Jack Rollins, Director, Federal Policy, National Association of Medicaid Directors; Tracy Garner, Chief Operating Officer, Easterseals; and Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer, NAMI. The background is a blue gradient with abstract patterns.

Last week, COO Tracy Garner spoke at the National Health Council 2026 Health Leadership Conference, contributing to important conversations about the future of health and caregiving. Our network is full of experts, and we’re proud to see them on national stages shaping the future of their fields.

YouTube video by Easterseals South Florida Dennis and Vivian's Love Story

This Valentine’s Day, Dennis and Vivian’s story from Easterseals South Florida reminds us how love grows stronger with support and connection. 🧡

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oY96FLY6A3A

El Paso high schoolers develop app to aid caregivers Watching family members struggle with long-term illnesses left two El Paso teens searching for a way to help, and their shared passion for coding became their answer.

The Congressional App Challenge spotlighted something powerful in El Paso: students using tech to support caregivers.

Caregivers face burnout, isolation, and solutions like this matter. Supporting caregivers helps families stay stable and communities strong.
https://bit.ly/4r1aX4E

Local group supports veterans and disabled in Cincinnati with daily commitment A local organization works hard every day to help meet the needs of thousands of individuals and families across the Tri-State.

WKRC visited Easterseals Redwood in Walnut Hills to see the work happening every day to support veterans, people with disabilities, and others across the Tri-State, from building community to finding jobs, housing, and mental health support.
https://bit.ly/4cbp0Qv

No one reaches the podium alone. The right support system makes every journey possible. Kendra E. Davenport, President & CEO Easterseals Disability Services

Good luck to all the athletes competing in the Olympic Games!

Behind every medal is years of support, opportunity, and community. That’s what Easterseals works to provide every day for people with disabilities and families nationwide.

We’re cheering you on! https://bit.ly/3OqTRi8

The Patriots' Jack Gibbens went viral for his interview with a reporter born without legs. Dave Stevens's story is deeper than that. Dave Stevens was born with no legs, but that didn't stop him from covering 30 Super Bowls and asking Jack Gibbens questions.

Easterseals board member Dave Stevens interviewed Patriots LB Jack Gibbens at Super Bowl LX, and the spotlight is finally catching up to a decades-long career.

An Emmy-winning broadcaster, former ESPN producer, and true pioneer in sports media.

Empathy > sympathy. Always.

https://bit.ly/4ce5oLC

Stadiums. Living rooms. Watch parties. Image of fans watching a game excitedly.

Wherever the game is playing... Easterseals logo.

Disabled fans are there too. Disability is a part of every community.

Know the Facts: 1 in 4 Americans has a disability. That's more than 70 million people!

Game day is for everyone! On the field, in the seats, and on the couch. With more than 70 million Americans being disabled, it’s clear: disability is part of every community.

When you support Easterseals, you help strengthen communities nationwide.
Learn more: https://hq.easterseals.com/4aq2oKR

Some stats aren't on the scoreboard.

Know the Facts: 1 in 4 Americans has a disability. That's more than 70 million people!

1 in 4 Americans has a disability. That’s over 70 million people. You would have to fill the 70,000-seat Super Bowl stadium over 1,000 times to fit everyone!

Disability isn’t a competition, but the facts matter. Check out https://hq.easterseals.com/4aq2oKR and help strengthen your community today!

Senator Blumenthal and Treasurer Russell Announce Expanded ABLE CT Eligibility

Financial security shouldn’t be out of reach because of disability.
Today at Easterseals CREC, US Senator Richard Blumenthal and CT Treasurer Erick Russell announced an expansion of ABLE CT, opening doors for millions to achieve financial security without risking benefits.

https://bit.ly/49DzhDF

Barbie Introduces Its First-Ever Doll With Autism - NJ Family Mattel launched its first-ever Barbie doll with autism, part of the Barbie Fashionistas line that celebrates every body type and disability.

Encouraging to see this great news getting attention!

Mattel’s first autistic Barbie—created with guidance from the autistic community—was highlighted by New Jersey Family.

Thoughtful representation helps kids feel seen and builds empathy early. https://bit.ly/4aWSFfR

Barbie® Introduces the First Autistic Barbie Doll, Championing Representation for Children through Play Mattel, Inc. unveiled today its first-ever autistic Barbie doll created with guidance from the autistic community to represent common ways autistic people may experience, process, and communicate about the world around them

Mattel’s first autistic Barbie in collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network reflects real experiences of communication and sensory needs.

Representation helps children feel seen and helps others learn empathy early. It’s how we create belonging. https://bit.ly/4pvPlM9

Our latest episode with Shane and Hannah Burcaw is a reminder that disabled love is not a storyline to be doubted or explained. It is real life, built on humor, comfort, and the kind of care that makes room for honesty.

Watch the full episode of Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong.

Listen to the full episode, Love, Humor, and Real Life: Shane & Hannah Burcaw on Relationships and Disability, on Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/ThyyXHCoHNk
All Platforms: https://everythingyouknow.transistor.fm/

Shane and Hannah Burcaw did not start Squirmy and Grubs as a disability education project. They started it to share their relationship, their travels, and the everyday moments that make life feel like life.

The latest episode of Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong is out now!

YouTube video by Easterseals Delaware & Maryland's Eastern Shore Meet Ellice!

At Easterseals Delaware & Maryland's Eastern Shore, Ellice is achieving her goal to get out and into her community! From honing her entrepreneurial skills to learning to manage money, Easterseals is giving her the tools she needs to thrive.

Learn more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AwS8iZAPAw

Promotional image for a podcast on disability featuring Erin Hawley, YouTubers Shane and Hannah from Squirmy and Grubs, and Lily Newton, against a vibrant purple background with decorative elements.

In our latest episode of Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong, hosts Lily and Erin sit down with Shane and Hannah Burcaw for a conversation about disability, relationships, and what it means to show up publicly when people insist on getting it wrong.

Watch or listen on all platforms.

Why smart CEOs treat philanthropy like strategy When corporate giving aligns with workforce needs, philanthropy becomes a powerful driver of talent, retention, and growth.

Easterseals CEO Kendra Davenport’s FastCompany op-ed: Corporate giving works best when it supports real workforce needs. Childcare, job training, disability services, and caregiving are all smart philanthropy initiatives that strengthen talent and drive ROI.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/3Ypqe2K

Families turn to Easterseals for support, belonging, and care that helps children grow with confidence. Know your impact. Make your year-end gift and strengthen disability services nationwide. https://hq.easterseals.com/3XzXZ0T

Easterseals programs help children build confidence, independence, and the skills they need to thrive — and families rely on these supports every day.

Know your impact. Make your year-end gift and support disability services nationwide. https://hq.easterseals.com/3XzXZ0T

Promotional image for Easterseals featuring the text, "When you give to Easterseals, you support disability services from therapy to employment, housing, and more!" The background includes abstract geometric shapes and a blue flower symbol.

Promotional graphic featuring a text overlay, "So kids like Katelyn get the supports they need to thrive!" over a background split into vibrant graphic elements and a lower inset photo of a teacher and a young child engaging over a book at a table.

Promotional image for Easterseals featuring a smiling child holding a doll, with text that reads 'Know Your Impact. Give Today.' The background is vibrant with purple and a multicolored abstract design.

When you support Easterseals, you make early childhood services possible — so kids like Katelyn get the support they need to thrive.

Know your impact. Give today. https://hq.easterseals.com/3XzXZ0T

On a mission to create smiles: Man finds dream job at N.C. deli John Van Hine lives with a chromosome anomaly, causing him to have fine motor issues, but that doesn't stop him from doing his job at a local deli.

John Van Hine is living his dream as a “super greeter” showing what’s possible when people with disabilities have access to meaningful work. Check out this great story! https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/human-interest/2025/12/01/nc-deli-employs-those-living-with-disabilities-

50 years of impact!

Limestone Community High School is marking five decades of partnership with Easterseals Central Illinois, supporting kids with disabilities through therapies, family support, and inclusive programs.

https://bit.ly/4p9Oq43

ICYMI: Easterseals CEO Kendra Davenport’s Forbes op-ed highlights the importance of reverse mentorship, learning from employees with less experience or different backgrounds. Actively seeking out new perspectives and fresh ideas can be the key to success. https://bit.ly/3MWArkx

Representatives Torres and Rutherford Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Blue Envelope Programs Nationwide | U.S. Congresswoman Norma Torres of California's 35th District The Official U.S. Congressional website of Congresswoman Norma Torres

Communication shouldn’t be a barrier to safety. This bipartisan bill supporting Blue Envelope Programs would help law enforcement better understand and respond to people with I/DD, autism, and other communication challenges. A simple idea with real impact.

torres.house.gov/media-center...

Promotional graphic from Easterseals featuring the message "Know the Facts: Disability is Relatable" set against a colorful abstract background.

Promotional image for Easterseals with a pink background, featuring the text 'When you support Easterseals, you help communities nationwide.', accompanied by a heart symbol and various colorful abstract shapes.

Graphic poster with a split design: the upper half features a dark pink background with a message 'Disability impacts everyone — and so does your support' and an asterisk symbol. The lower half displays colorful abstract shapes.

Hand drawn text says Know Your Impact. Give today.

Disability is relatable.
When you support Easterseals, you help strengthen communities across the country.

Disability impacts everyone — and so does your support.
Know your impact. Give today.
https://hq.easterseals.com/3XzXZ0T

Your support helps children build mobility, strength, and confidence — and ensures families can access the services they need.

Know your impact. Give today: https://hq.easterseals.com/3XzXZ0T