Self-Determination

Two people with disabilities and in wheelchairs using speech generative devices attending a work meeting in the office.

How Do You Get from Here to There? Celebrating NDEAM with Creativity.

21st Century Rehabiliation Solutions, Self-Determination, The Pursuit of the American Dream /

In recognition of *National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we continue exploring *creativity* in the workplace and how it can revolutionize job development for people with disabilities. The first part of this series focused on frustration and the desire for improved job development outcomes. In this segment, we zero in on a critical element necessary […]

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Photo of leaves falling on the ground with the text Hello Change.

New Beginnings: How to Embrace Change and Strengthen Your Caregiving Team

21st Century Rehabiliation Solutions, Daily Life, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting /

Change is inevitable, but… Change is an inevitable part of any journey, and it’s with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to Abby and Elise. Abby has left us to pursue an exciting new position at a local museum, and Elise is moving on to new opportunities. While we will miss them both, we are

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Siloutees of Mikelle and Katherine look at a golden circular firework in the evening sky.

Independence Day with Mikelle: A Celebration of Freedom and Resilience

A Home of My Own, Community, Daily Life, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting /

Independence Day is a time for celebration, reflection, and coming together as a community. It represents the freedom and independence that we all cherish. I think Mikelle embodies the true spirit of community, resilience, and the American desire and opportunities to achieve your dreams. For many years, our family has celebrated Denver’s 3rd of July

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Mikelle is in her wheelchair smiling with three of her favorite girlfriends surrounding her with love.

A Tale of Two Celebrations: Mikelle’s Memorable Birthday Bash

A Home of My Own, Daily Life, Family, Friends, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting /

Celebrating Mikelle’s Birthday in the Shadows of Her Grandma’s Home This summer, Mikelle celebrated her birthday at the home of her brother Kasey and his wife Allison, once her beloved Grandma’s house for sixty-two years. Although it marked the second birthday without her Grandma, gathering friends in the revitalized backyard breathed new life into the celebration.

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brown and white photo with people gathered around the kitchen table talking. Featured hands and coffee cups.

Conversations Over Coffee: Navigating a Chaotic World

21st Century Rehabiliation Solutions, A Home of My Own, Community, Daily Life, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting, Uncategorized /

The kitchen table in Mikelle’s cozy condo hosts countless conversations. It’s where the Shining Beautiful team gathers, supporting each other through the chaos and adventures of everyday life. Each day, the table—and sometimes the coffee table—is laden with coffee mugs, a fresh breakfast or a plate of freshly baked chocolate croissants, and the weight of

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Embracing the Beauty of Home Ownership Through Section 8

21st Century Rehabiliation Solutions, A Home of My Own, Community, Daily Life, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting /

It Starts By Listening to the Dream Mikelle Learned’s story is a testament to the transformative power of home ownership, particularly for individuals navigating life with disabilities. Despite facing challenges, Mikelle’s journey illuminates the possibilities that Section 8 assistance offers in achieving this dream. In 2004, Mikelle let her community and her family know she

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Pink graphic with old fashion gold colored alarm clock in the center. Text says Nurturing a loving relationship with time.

Nuturing a Loving Relationship with Time

Daily Life, Family, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting, The Pursuit of the American Dream /

Most of us experience a conflicting relationship with time. Time continues to be both the adversary and the giver of great gifts. As the world speeds up, our relationship with time becomes more conflicted–especially as we grow older, especially if we are caregivers and people who have lived experience with disability.  Many of us operated

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a small peninsula with old Mediterranean buildings overlooking an azure colored sea

The No New Year’s Resolution Revolution: Embracing Personal Growth Without Pressure

21st Century Rehabiliation Solutions, A Home of My Own, Daily Life, Family, Self-Determination, Special Needs Parenting, Uncategorized /

When the New Year bell rang, I decided it was time for the Christmas tree to come down. For Mikelle, it was a bittersweet moment. Her month-long party had come to an end. She wore her disappointment stoically as she watched me take down the garland, the twinkling lights she loved, and finally, the treasured

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