A New Understanding Starts with One Visit

Steve was in the strip mall for something else entirely when he noticed a sign outside a bright, modern storefront: “Come on in and ask us about disability inclusion.” 

He glanced at the time: fifteen minutes to spare. 

Inside, Steve was greeted by a friendly Lifeworks host who welcomed him warmly and offered a tour of the space. “I’m just checking it out,” Steve said with a half-smile. “Wasn’t planning on anything.” 

“No problem at all,” the host replied. “That’s what we’re here for.”

As they walked around the space, Steve was struck by how inviting it all felt with comfortable seating areas and a lot of natural light. But one detail in particular made him pause: the accessible restroom, equipped not only with grab bars and turning space, but with a full-sized adult changing table and lifting mechanism. 

“I’ve never seen anything like that,” Steve admitted. 

The host nodded. “Most people haven’t. But the truth is, for many people with disabilities, not having a restroom like this means they can’t go out into the community like you or me. Or they’re forced to be changed on a bathroom floor, which is dangerous and humiliating.” 

Steve’s expression shifted. “I hadn’t thought about that. I think I just assumed disability was about Social Security. You know, people who can’t work.” 

The host gently explained that disability is a broad and diverse experience, not a single definition or outcome. They talked about the services Lifeworks offers, from in-home supports to job coaching to community-based Day Support Services. And how the Centers for Disability Inclusion, like the one in New Hope, are meant to challenge assumptions and build real belonging. 

“Disability inclusion,” the host said, “shouldn’t be the exception in our communities – it should be the standard.” 

Steve stayed for a few more minutes, asked a few more questions, and left with more than he expected: not just information, but a shift in how he thought about people, space, and community. 

That night at dinner, Steve brought it up. “Did you know disability is the only minority group any of us can join at any time?” he asked. His family looked up, interested. Steve smiled. “Yeah. I didn’t either. But I learned a lot today – just by walking through the right door.” 

About the Series

This post is part of our new blog series: “A Day at the Lifeworks Center for Disability Inclusion – New Hope.” Each story in the series reflects real experiences shared with us by people who visit the center – whether for Day Support, Employment, In-Home or Navigation Services, or stopping by for a training, education sessions, or community event.

To honor the privacy of individuals and highlight the many ways people engage with the space, names and details are blended to paint a fuller picture of what accessing a Center for Disability Inclusion looks like in everyday life.

Other Posts in this Series

Finding the Right Support Through Navigation Services

Creating Community Through Day Support Services

Gaining New Perspectives on Disability Inclusion Through Trainings

Moving Forward with Employment