Build Hope for a Brighter Future – We Need You!
How you can make a difference all year round during National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about developmental disabilities, promoting understanding and acceptance, and celebrating the unique contributions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Since President Ronald Reagan’s proclamation in 1987, this month has served as a platform to amplify the voices of those with disabilities and shine a light on both their challenges and triumphs.
At In Flight, Inc., we believe that fostering independence and empowering the people we support goes beyond basic needs—it’s about providing opportunities for personal growth, self-expression, and community connection. But these experiences often extend beyond what Medicaid covers, which is why sustainable funding is so critical to our mission.
This March, we are proud to kick off our Multi-Year Giving Society (MYGS) with a goal of welcoming 20 new Hope Builders—donors committed to giving $10 a month. These monthly gifts create a reliable stream of income that allows us to plan for the future and provide impactful programs that enrich the lives of those we serve.
Sustainable Giving, Meaningful Impact
Sustainable giving is the foundation of secure, long-term growth for any nonprofit. While grants are invaluable, they often come with limitations and uncertainties. Sustainable donations, like those made through the MYGS, empower us to fund programs and activities that aren’t always supported by grants. They allow us to dream bigger and offer opportunities that directly enhance the lives of people with IDD.
Build Hope for Continued Equine Therapy
Take, for example, our Catskill Day Habilitation’s equine therapy program. With the support of Breezy Lawn Farms, individuals like Titus have flourished. Titus, who had struggled with focus and following directions, found a sense of purpose and connection while working with the horses. His self-control and listening skills noticeably improved, and he gained a deeper understanding of how good communication and safety go hand in hand. The bond he built with the staff and the horses was profound—he was always excited for his next session. This transformative experience was made possible through community support, not government funding.
Build Hope for the Return of Music Therapy
Our past music therapy program in our Ghent Day Habilitation is another powerful example. Before the pandemic, a music therapist worked closely with participants like Brian, who is nonverbal and often shy. Music therapy opened a new world for Brian, giving him a way to express himself. He would hum along and play the piano, often reluctant to leave when his 30-minute session ended. Unfortunately, after the pandemic, we lost the funding to continue this program—but sustainable giving could bring it back.
Build Hope for New Opportunities
We’re also exploring new opportunities, such as Art Meditation courses for our Red Hook I-SAIL program. This creative outlet would allow individuals to explore and communicate their emotions in a safe and nurturing environment, promoting both mental wellness and artistic expression.
Finally, we know how vital physical activity is for mental and emotional health. The recent closing of the Catskill Community Center left a gap in resources for many of our programs. Jimmy, one of the individuals we support, has expressed his desire to live a healthier lifestyle but struggles to find accessible ways to stay active. With a steady stream of support from our MYGS, we could build partnerships with local YMCAs, offering people like Jimmy opportunities to swim, play basketball, and engage in other forms of exercise—all of which have been proven to positively impact mental health and behavior.
Join Us in Creating Lasting Change
This National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we invite you to be part of something bigger—a movement towards sustainable giving that ensures the people we support have access to life-changing programs and opportunities. By becoming a Hope Builder with a $10 monthly gift, you’re not just donating—you’re investing in independence, creativity, and well-being.
Together, let’s build a future where funding is steady, opportunities are limitless, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can thrive.
Your support creates lasting change. Join us in empowering lives.
Become a Hope Builder today and help us reach our goal of 20 new members this March.
