Unless U is an incredible local organization. In the words of their team, "Unless U is a non-profit organization committed to fostering the growth of adults with disabilities academically, spiritually, physically, socially, and vocationally. Our services create an environment that promotes independence."
Who They Support
Unless U stands alongside adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering them comprehensive support and services to foster their growth academically, spiritually, physically, socially, and vocationally. Recognizing the gap in services for adults after the age of 21, they are committed to creating an environment that promotes independence and empowers individuals to thrive.
The Problem They're Addressing
Statistics reveal a concerning reality: while 90% of students with disabilities receive support during their school-age years, only 10% continue to receive services after the age of 21. This gap in support leaves many individuals and their families facing uncertainty and limited opportunities for growth and development. Unless U aims to bridge this gap and provide ongoing support to adults with disabilities, enabling them to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives.
Their History and Inspiration
Founded in 2014 by Lindy Williamson Cleveland, Unless U was inspired by Lindy's older brother, Jordan, who has Down syndrome. Jordan's desire for a place to learn, socialize, and belong fueled Lindy's vision to create Unless U. From humble beginnings around the Williamson family kitchen table with Jordan and five friends, Unless U has grown exponentially. Over the past nine years, they have served over 150 families across two campuses and expanded their services to include job training programs like Unless U Scoops.
Stories of Achievement
One parent, Darlene, shared her heartfelt gratitude, expressing how Unless U has transformed her son's life, providing him with a sense of joy and belonging he had never experienced before.
"For the first time in my son's life, he is enjoying his time away from home. I'm not getting calls from school to come pick him up in the middle of the day. I drop him off with a happy face and pick him up with a happy face. The teachers are still smiling, too. There have been zero incidents or complaints. This has never happened before. All the students seem so happy to be there. It's another miracle blessing. The first day, he was reluctant to go inside the building.
Today, he seemed disappointed that I was there to pick him up. For many years, my hope and prayer has been for Will to have the chance to live - really live - before he dies, to break free from the prison his mind and body have been housed in. It's finally happening, consistently happening. I thank my Father in Heaven for the many amazing people He has placed in our path. My heart is so full it might just burst."
Stories like Darlene's are a testament to the transformative impact of their programs and the hope they instill in the lives of individuals and families.
Their 2024 Goals
As Unless U approaches their 10th anniversary, their goals for 2024 are twofold: to celebrate the incredible milestones achieved thus far and to expand their reach to serve more families in need. With their Post Place campus at full capacity, they aim to add another class to their main Unless U campus to accommodate the growing demand for their services. Additionally, they plan to enhance their family ministry to provide comprehensive support to parents as they navigate the journey of parenting adults with disabilities.
How You Can Help
Unless U invites individuals who feel called to support their mission to visit their website, www.unlessu.org, where they can learn more about their work and the impact of their contributions. Whether through financial donations or volunteer opportunities, every contribution makes a difference in the lives of the individuals and families they serve.
At Unless U, they believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and live a life of purpose and dignity. Join them in empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their full potential and build a more inclusive society for all.
