What's Going On at The IC?

Please enjoy this month's snapshot of the events and news happening here at The Independence Center as well as the broader conversation about disability!

If you have questions or want more information about anything you see here, please email us at info@the-ic.org or call us at 719-471-8181.

[Image description: At the top, text says "May is Mental Health Month. Take some time to Look around, look within." Below the text, a series of colorful illustrations depict the skyscrapers, mountains, shops, and several groups of people doing various activities like walking dogs and speaking with each other.]

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM), has been observed in the United States since 1949. This national movement works to raise awareness about mental health, break down barriers to mental health care, and help promote a culture of acceptance and support for those living with mental illness.

Currently, only half of Americans (around 52%) say they are familiar with the mental health care system. Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience a mental health condition each year, however less than half receive treatment. (Source National Alliance on Mental Illness).

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world; in fact, 19.4 million people have at least one depressive episode each year. Accordingly, you likely know someone who lives with depression — maybe even someone who struggles with it daily.

[ID: A white woman wearing a black sweater signs in American Sign Language.]

The goal of MHAM is to educate about various forms of mental illness, their symptoms, and the resources available for treatment and support. A number of invisible disabilities are a result of struggles with mental health, making it additionally important to prioritize mental health and wellness, as well as emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

For more information about this month and to find resources, please follow this link: https://mhanational.org/mental-health-month

[Image description: Twelve people stand in front of a blue wall with the words "Welcome to The Independence Center" near the top.]

The IC Hosts Delegation from Poland

On Monday, May 8, The Independence Center was delighted to host a delegation of journalists and political scientists from Poland, brought to our city by the Colorado Springs World Affairs Council. After a presentation on disability rights as they pertain to voting, Independence Center CEO Indy Frazee and Advocacy Specialist DeAnna Rumsey facilitated a discussion with the delegates on voting rights, accessibility, and the rights of people with disabilities.

The IC is excited to continue helping shape not just our city, state, and country into a place where everyone is Known, Valued, and Included, but also the world as a whole.

[ID: A white woman wearing a black sweater signs in American Sign Language.]

[Image description: In front of an illustration of a US flag, the words "Remember, Honor, Support" are above the phrase "National Military Appreciation Month."

May is Military Appreciation Month

In May, we also recognize Military Appreciation Month. In 1999, Congress designated this month to ensure the nation was given the chance to publicly show their appreciation for troops both past and present.

Not only do we pause on Memorial Day to remember the service of those who gave all, but the month also holds several other military anniversaries and events, including Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day.

Please join us as we honor the service and sacrifice of members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, Space Force, and National Guard as well as the contribution of their spouses.

[ID: A white woman wearing a black sweater signs in American Sign Language.]

To learn more about how The Independence Center helps empower veterans to stay independent in their homes, please visit our Veteran-Directed Care program page (https://www.theindependencecenter.org/veterans/) or call 719-471-8181 to speak to one of our case workers who specializes in Veteran care.

[Image description: In front of a blank gray background, a white woman with long brown hair and brown eyes smiles at the camera.]

Employee Spotlight:

Kyle Howell, Veteran Coach Specialist

What do you do at The IC?
"I am a Veteran Coach with the Veteran-Directed Care program. My main responsibility is attempting to keep Veterans in their home for as long as possible, by ensuring that they have the proper care and home supports in place.

What do you do for fun when you aren't at work?
"I have a husband and a daughter, and we love to travel! We are out of town most weekends, exploring new places. I also enjoy reading and music.

[ID: A white woman wearing a black sweater signs in American Sign Language.]

What's something people might be surprised to find out about you?
"My husband and I love the band Guster, and we travel all over the U.S. to see them play at new venues every year. We are taking my daughter to her first Guster concert this summer!

[Image description: The colorful Fest-ABLE logo above the words "Save the Date! July 26, 2023, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., 729 S. Tejon St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903." The IC's logo is underneath. ]

Mark your calendars for The IC's annual

ADA Fest-ABLE!

Save the date! On Wednesday, July 26, The IC will again host our annual Fest-ABLE event to celebrate the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)!

Make plans to join us at The Independence Center, located at 729 S. Tejon St., between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a variety of activities, food, and music.

Watch for a future newsletter which will have more information about how you can participate in one of The IC's favorite events every summer!

[ID: A white woman wearing a black sweater signs in American Sign Language.]

June Community Classes and Workshops

Classes at The Independence Center provide opportunities to learn new skills, meet new people, and try new things in a supportive environment! The classes below as well as any classes added after this newsletter goes out can always be found on our website's event calendar .

To sign up for a class, request accommodations, or to learn about how to participate in a virtual / online class, please contact the staff member listed for each event or call 719-471-8181.

Blended Group Park Day

Friday, June 2, 10:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the gazebo at Nancy Lewis Park
2615 N. Logan Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Contact: Edgar Morales, emorales@the-ic.org, 719-471-8181 ext. 168

Lady Gaga + Classical Music + AC/DC = Music Therapy

Wednesday, June 14, 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at The IC or online
Contact: Grant Langdon, glangdon@the-ic.org, 719-471-8181 ext. 163

Holistic Nutrition Class

Thursday, June 8, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The IC or online
Join us to learn more about holistic nutrition and how it can improve your health!
Contact: Jeanette Fortin, jfortin@the-ic.org, 719-471-8181 ext. 126

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