OrthoIndy Foundation awards $150K to program supporting adults with disabilities

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 Independent Living for Adults with Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities (ILADD) 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, 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,” ILADD Executive Director Andy Kirby said. “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.