United Way's Community Connect

I was shocked to learn that 1 in 4 people have some type of disability as well. It's a reminder to be kind, patient, and take the steps necessary to ensure everyone I interact with can walk away with a positive experience.

How do the different models of disability show up in your day-to-day life? How might they impact people with disabilities? When you encounter people with disabilities, what feelings or thoughts come to mind? Do these feelings or thoughts reflect the medical, social or holistic models of disability? What barriers in your community prevent the inclusion of people with disabilities?

Discussion question: What did you learn today that resonated, or was new or surprising?

Prompt quesions: Think of a time when you were questioned or not believed. How did it feel? How might having to explain or prove a disability over and over again affect a person’s mental health? What is an assumption about hidden disability that you want to learn more about or change after today? Day 4 Challenge: https://connect.unitedforscmi.org/home/resources/day-4-understanding-hidden-disabilities-2026-09-28

Hello, United Way of South Central Michigan is pleased to share the 2027–2028 Cultivating Economic Stability Grant opportunity , developed in partnership with the Kalamazoo Blueprint for Peace, Group 4: Cultivating Economic Stability . This funding opportunity is focused on strengthening the economic stability of people and families in Kalamazoo County, particularly households living below the ALICE threshold. Funding will support work connected to critical basic needs, including: Housing