Tag: interacting with the disabled

April is National Volunteer Month

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date April 11, 2025
No Comments on April is National Volunteer Month

April is National Volunteer Month and the week of April 20th-26th 2025 has been set aside as National Volunteer Week. This year, as in all previous years, we have the opportunity to recognize those within our communities who freely give their time in unpaid work.

National Volunteer Week was established by Presidential Proclamation in 1974 as a way of honoring these amazing volunteers and thanking them for donating their time to charitable causes and to bring attention to services that wouldn’t exist otherwise.

The spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in the U.S. In 2018 the U.S. Department of Labor reports that over 77.3 million people volunteered through an organization at least once. And there are undoubtedly millions more who did volunteer works without doing so through a formal organization.

Mays Mission for the Handicapped has long recognized the importance of volunteers. Since 1997 we have supported a Faith in Action Caregivers Alliance in which we call upon volunteers within our community to provide caregiving and other services to the frail elderly and disabled. This program could not have succeeded without volunteers.

Mays Mission employees have also volunteered to help other organizations thereby helping to foster and support the spirit of volunteerism within our local community.

This April would be a great time to volunteer in your community. Your time is a gift! If you need some ideas on how to help, on Monday Mays Mission employees visited with veterans at a nursing home passing out some of our ‘gift paks’ containing stationary and the residents loved it. We can also provide you with free brochures full of ideas and information like ‘The Spirit of Volunteerism’ and ‘Faith In Action Caregivers Alliance’ at no cost to you. These brochures were produced by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission who would love for you to have them. Just call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and let us know. Thank you!

Tags april is national volunteer month, disability advocacy, faith in action, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, volunteer, volunterrism

Programs

Change and Attitude

We are all brought into this world with our own unique set of circumstances. Some are born into wealth and prosperity while some are born into poverty; some short and some tall; some with a natural ability to excel in certain areas while others struggle to make the grade. Whatever the situation might be, no two individuals are alike.

As we meander through life’s intriguing journey, there usually comes a time when we all decide we are ready for a change. Whatever it might be, more likely than not, the change will not be instantaneous or easy.

Change usually takes time and most definitely a conscious effort. Whether it’s habits, lifestyle; physical, mental or spiritual the decision to change will require a different way of thinking and a lot of patience.

With the disabled, changes never seem to come fast enough. Often the change we are looking for is a cure or miracle drug or procedure that will propel us into mainstream of life. Like everyone else, patience is the key.

Unfortunately, change doesn’t always come. Sometimes we just have to live with the hand that’s been dealt us. We can sit and mope and wallow in self-pity or we can make that conscious decision to make the best of what we have. Anyone can do nothing-physically fit or disabled. It takes a sound mind and a lot of heart to say, “No matter what my circumstances are, I am going to make the best of what God has given me and trust that he will see me through.”

Change isn’t always easy and sometimes impossible but we always have a choice in attitude. Attitude toward change and life’s circumstances makes all the difference in the world! Now how’s your attitude?

If you would like free brochures to pass out in your community and help raise awareness on behalf of individuals with disabilities, call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we would be glad to send some to you.

Tags ability not disability, Change and attitude, Disabilities, employ the disabled, Inspirational, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs

Programs

Good Neighbors

The sweltering heat of summer is upon us. Record-breaking temperatures have already hit the northeast. We, here in the south, are always anticipating the “dog-days” of summer-but few can honestly say they enjoy the heat indices commonly above 105.

A healthy able-bodied person may go to the lake for a swim or take a cool dip in a pool. So refreshing and what a relief! Yet, for many with disabilities these options are not available. Therefore, one must take precautions not to get overheated in this volatile time of the year. It is common for people with spinal cord injuries not to have the ability to perspire, which is the body’s natural cooling system. Also, as some people age their skin loses elastins (elasticity) thus keeping the skin taut. This, in turn, causes the body not to perspire as it should. Over-heating leads to heat-stroke and heat-stroke may lead to death.

As friends and neighbors, make it a point to call or visit a friend with a disability or the elderly especially if they are without air conditioning or live alone. Maybe you could invite them over for a cool sip of lemonade. Sound silly? Please do not feel that way. This not only shows your caring and concern, you may save a life. Do your part to help us all make it through the dog-days of summer!

Think about it!

Call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for informational brochures like “Heat Wave – Heat Protection Safety” to show how you can help. These brochures were printed by individuals with disabilities and we provide them to the public free of charge. Thank you and God bless your kind heart!

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, health, heat protection safety, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, programs, summer

Programs

Strive to do “something!”

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date May 15, 2024
No Comments on Strive to do “something!”

Whether you are one of the healthiest people around, young or old, able-bodied or not, we all have dreams and aspirations that we set for ourselves. Be it monetary, education, employment, marriage-whatever- we all want to succeed in life.

Often time’s people tend to set limitations on themselves and especially those with disabilities. We all need to set goals in our lives and pursue them with vigor. Literally anyone can sit around and do nothing. It takes no talent or ambition. Anyone can feel sorry for themselves. In doing so you gain nothing and waste precious time that can never be retrieved.

With that said, how about setting the simple goal of being an encourager? When your heart is set on helping others you are not only enabling and encouraging them to pursue their dreams but you are setting yourself up to be blessed! In doing this, you are administering the “Golden Rule” in Matthew 7:12 “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…”

Let’s all add one more goal to that list of aspirations – be one who encourages! You will feel better. They will feel better. You will pleasing God and fulfilling one of his commands. Give it a shot – be the source of encouragement!

For more information feel free to call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and thank you for your support!

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, encouragement, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, recreation is for everyone

Programs

Vacation Time

Everyone needs a break from the hustle and bustle of his or her everyday routine. Whether you are working a 40-hour a week job, being a house-mom, volunteering or even retired, we all like to get out and get away from our usual environment and take a vacation. Trips to the big city, camping, theme parks and national and state parks are just a few of the multitude of possibilities for a family vacation.

For people with disabilities, just a smidgen of planning ahead can prevent heartbreak, disappointment and potentially risky situations. Most attractions, such as theme and national parks have made their sites accessible to the disabled thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Yet, due to a variety of issues and unforeseen circumstances, what is available to the able-bodied individual may vary somewhat from what is available to the disabled traveler.

When making hotel/motel reservations, always ask the manager of the facility to describe “handicapped” rooms. What works for the “average” traveler may not work for you. In my travels across the nation, it’s not uncommon to reserve a room only to find out that my wheelchair cannot get through the bathroom door. There’s no such thing as “over planning.”

If flying, try to take very necessary items with you in your carry-on luggage. Especially remember your essential medications. If your regular luggage should happen to get lost or end up on another flight, you will probably be a little more at ease.

For more information on vacationing with the disabilities, call 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for our brochure, “The Disabled Traveler.” Have fun and be safe!

Tags ability not disability, accessibility, Disabilities, interacting with the disabled, making your community more accessable, mays mission, programs, the americans with disabilities act, the disabled traveler, vacation with disabilities

Programs

Seeking But Not Finding

What is the first thought that comes to mind when someone utters the word “disabled?” (Try it. It’s interesting.) Is it homebound, a wheelchair, someone who is blind or maybe uses a cane or crutch? Fact is, we all have our own interpretation. And, when it comes to disabilities, no two are alike.

Although no two disabled individuals are alike, two-thirds of the 54 million disabled individuals in the United States desire employment. I have stated this before but I feel that it deserves repeating; what would happen to our welfare, Medicare, unemployment, and the national debt if these people desiring employment were put to work? Let’s say less than half of these people started working. In two years’ time they could be let off welfare, hopefully off Medicare, and contributing to the system instead of depleting. A unique concept? Possibly, but I don’t think so. People, especially employers and our representatives in Washington, D.C. need to think along these lines and find avenues of training and employment for these people. We do our best to do our part at Mays Mission for the Handicapped. In providing on-the-job training and scholarships, we put people with disabilities to work and provide them an opportunity to further their education. You can do your part by encouraging an employer to hire people with disabilities. Also, call or write your congressman or congresswoman and ask them what they are doing to increase awareness of the fact that people with disabilities want, need, and deserve quality employment.

If you would like to help us advocate on behalf of people with disabilities we have brochures to help and we can provide these to you for free, just message us, call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we would love to help. These brochures were produced by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission. Thank you for your support and God bless your kind heart!

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, employ the disabled, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, volunteerism

Programs

Everything in life happens for a reason

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date April 22, 2024
No Comments on Everything in life happens for a reason

Everything in life happens for a reason. So often we as humans just don’t understand why. Sometimes disabilities are a result of our own mistakes such as drinking and driving or merely not thinking before acting.

When one is born with a disability or is genetically predisposed to a disabling condition we all too often go to God and ask “why?” In our finite way of thinking we often see the disability as something negative, only thinking of ourselves. This is not to say that we cannot question God or pray and ask Him to deliver us from our illnesses.

My grand-nephew, the grandson of my brother, was born with Down syndrome. My brother, in his first reactions, questioned God wondering how such a thing could happen. After much thought and a grieving process he found peace. In his prayer time, while seeking God’s comfort the thought came to him; “Has God ever made a mistake?” Without a doubt, the answer had to be “No!”

In the New Living Translation, Romans 8:28 says “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” It didn’t say “some things,” it says “all things.”

Even though disabilities happen, and whether or not they ever disappear, our lives touch and affect others. Whether it’s for inspiration or to cause us be thankful for what God has given us, everything has its purpose.

Thank you for your support of Mays Mission for the Handicapped. If you would like more information or free brochures to hand out in your community and help us advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities call us or email us at info@maysmission.org today. And feel free to share your experiences in the comments section.

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, everything happens for a reason, Ewing W. Mays, faith, faith in action, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, programs

Programs

Mission Gift Paks

Mays Mission likes to call our employees with disabilities “handicapable” employees.

One exciting and rewarding project for the employees of Mays Mission for the Handicapped is the Gift Pak program. This program helps our employees with disabilities help themselves.

The Gift Paks are put together from items produced at the Mission. Each Gift Pak contains a pen, postcards, personal notepads, bookmarks, and our New Hope Newsletter. They are designed, printed, and assembled by the Handicapable employees of Mays Mission.

Each year our representatives make tours across the United States visiting some of our handicapped friends and stopping at nursing care facilities to distribute these Gift Paks. We also ship our Gift Paks out to interested nursing homes.

When we began this program we had no idea it would receive such a favorable response. We received many letters from nursing home directors expressing how much each resident enjoyed the Gift Pak. We are certainly proud of them!

It is through the generosity of our donors that we are able to help others. For more information, or for gift paks that you can help distribute, please call us at 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today and please feel free to share your experiences in the comments section.

Tags ability not disability, gift paks, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, veterans home visits, volunteerism

Programs

Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date April 18, 2024
No Comments on Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

What can we do to improve the lives of others, especially those with disabilities?

The dictionary describes an “advocate” as one who publicly supports or suggests an idea, development or way of doing something.

Here at Mays Mission, our primary goal is to aid and assist people with disabilities. Yes, putting to work those who may have difficulty finding gainful employment is one facet of our purpose yet there is so much more.

Public education regarding the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities is of utmost importance. You see, through our various programs and direct mail, we have the opportunity to inform and educate the public throughout the country that given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.

Through our On-The-Job Training Program we have seen scores of people with a variety of disabilities come and go here at Mays Mission while others have chosen to stay with us. It’s heartwarming to know that some have bought their own homes, learned to drive and purchased automobiles, while some have moved on to bigger and better opportunities. Seeing people succeed and become more independent where at one time hope seemed lost is an indescribable feeling. This On-The-Job Training Program is only possible because of the kind hearts of our donors.

For over fifty years now here at Mays Mission we have had one goal: to aid and assist people with disabilities. Won’t you please join us? Call us at 1-888-503-7955, email us at info@maysmission.org or message us on Facebook or Instagram to learn more about our programs and see how you can be an advocate for people with disabilities. We have brochures produced by individuals with disabilities we can send you free of charge to share in your community. And we accept donations through Paypal, just click the donate button here on our website. Thank you so much for your help in our mission of over 50 years of serving the disabled!

Tags 50 years of serving the disabled, ability not disability, Disabilities, disability advocacy, disability advocate, employ the disabled, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, volunteerism

Programs

Total eclipse at Mays Mission

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date April 17, 2024
No Comments on Total eclipse at Mays Mission

On the afternoon of April the 8th, Mays Mission employees were treated with a chance to see the solar eclipse. Here in Arkansas we were fortunate enough to be in the direct path of totality and employees took a few minutes to witness this natural phenomenon with special glasses provided to us by our local Chamber Of Commerce here in Heber Springs.

At around 1:55 PM the moon had traveled directly in front of the sun and we got to see this incredibly rare moment. It was dark enough some stars were visible in the sky and God blessed us with beautiful weather and a clear sky to experience this rare event. Such an event is rare enough there won’t be another in North America until 2044.

Thanks for supporting May Mission for the Handicapped. If you would like to help us advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities in your community we have brochures we can provide you with free of charge. These brochures were produced by individuals with disabilities here at Mays Mission.

Tags ability not disability, eclipse, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Archives

Categories