Our Story

Stride4ward was born from a personal place from growing up with a brother who has Down syndrome and seeing firsthand what true inclusion, patience, and joy look like.

For over 50 years, my brother has been a reminder that the world is made richer when everyone is given the chance to express themselves. He communicates through small gestures, colors he loves, songs he hums, and moments of calm or excitement that say more than words ever could.

Watching him navigate the world showed me something important:
Creativity is universal. Expression is universal. Belonging is universal.

But access is not and we want to bring the programs home to where individuals can have access at anytime.

I saw how limited the opportunities exist for many living in group homes or supported living environments. Programs were either too specialized, too formal, too expensive, or simply not designed with their needs in mind. What was missing were everyday outlets with simple, meaningful moments to create, connect, laugh, be seen, and feel included.

Stride4ward was created to fill that gap.

It’s built on the belief that creativity doesn’t have to be polished or perfect to be powerful. It just needs to be accessible.

And it started with heart, quite literally, our signature heart logo, our message, and our commitment to creating opportunities one day at a time.