Grant will strengthen transportation and health and wellness programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Central Indiana
INDIANAPOLIS and ZIONSVILLE, IND. — For adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), reliable transportation and access to health and wellness resources can play an important role in building independence and staying connected to the community. The OrthoIndy Foundation has awarded $150,000 to ILADD (Independent Living for Adults with Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities) to expand access for more than 200 of the organization’s participants across Central Indiana.
The grant will support the purchase of an accessible 12-passenger vehicle owned and operated by ILADD. The vehicle will help the adults the organization serves, known within the program as self-advocates, more easily participate in educational programs, fitness and wellness activities, volunteer opportunities, community events, and other experiences.
Funding will also strengthen ILADD’s year-round health and wellness initiatives, creating more opportunities for self-advocates to build healthy habits and improve their physical health, confidence and overall quality of life. Planned programming includes fitness classes, adaptive cycling, strength training, walking clubs, yoga, nutrition education, wellness screenings and healthy lifestyle coaching.
“Mobility is about more than getting from one place to another. It can determine whether someone has access to the people, resources and experiences that help them live a healthy and fulfilling life,” said Dr. John Dietz, OrthoIndy Foundation founder and former U.S. Army orthopedic surgeon. “We’re proud to help ILADD create opportunities for adults with IDD to build greater independence while remaining connected to their communities.”
Headquartered in Zionsville, Indiana, ILADD serves adults with IDD in Boone, Hamilton, Hendricks, Marion and Madison counties through housing, lifelong learning, enrichment and social opportunities. Its approach recognizes that independence looks different for every individual and can include everything from learning practical and safety skills to developing friendships, participating in community activities and living in a home of one’s own.
“We all rely on other people in different ways, and independence is a continuum,” said Andy Kirby, executive director of ILADD. “Our goal is to give self-advocates the skills, support and opportunities they need to pursue what independence looks like for them. With the OrthoIndy Foundation’s support, we can make it easier for people to get out into the community while also strengthening programs that help them stay healthy and well. When those needs are supported, people can focus more on the things they want to learn, experience and accomplish.”
The investment comes as ILADD continues to expand its programming and its vision for inclusive, accessible housing in Central Indiana through Crossbridge Point. To learn more about ILADD or make a gift, visit iladdinc.org or contact ILADD directly.
To learn more about OrthoIndy and the OrthoIndy Foundation, visit orthoindy.com/our-impact.
Media Contacts
Brandon Smith, Chief Development Officer, OrthoIndy, P: 317.802.2439, E: [email protected]
Andy Kirby, Executive Director, ILADD, E: [email protected], W: iladdinc.org
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About ILADD
ILADD (Independent Living for Adults with Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities) is a Central Indiana nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live more independently through housing, lifelong learning, enrichment, and social opportunities. Through innovative programs and the development of Crossbridge Point, ILADD is creating pathways for adults with IDD to thrive in homes of their own and as active members of their communities.
About OrthoIndy Foundation
Established in 2010, the OrthoIndy Foundation is dedicated to improving mobility and function for residents of Central Indiana, with particular emphasis on supporting veterans and older adults. Its mission is to increase self-sufficiency, promote wellness and improve quality of life for individuals affected by orthopedic issues.
The Foundation’s philanthropic efforts are supported through the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF), which manages funds and conducts due diligence and grant vetting for qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. Strategic direction is provided by the OrthoIndy Foundation Advisory Committee. Since its founding, the Foundation has supported hundreds of people through community partnerships, charitable investments and mobility-focused initiatives. Learn more about the Foundation at orthoindy.com/our-impact.
