More Than You See Raises Awareness

posted by Katie Slade on Thursday, March 12, 2015

More Than You See was created after learning of an actual situation we fear happens all too often.

While attending the movies a couple of years ago, a person with a disability was called the "R-word" by another moviegoer.

Saddened and hurt, this person asked his direct support staff to help him approach the group and ask them not to use that word again. Judging from the response they received….maybe they will and maybe they won’t.

Upon learning of this situation, we were flabbergasted. "It’s the 21 century," we thought, "why is this still happening?" Then we asked ourselves, "What can we do about this?"

One of our ideas was to create an event to help raise awareness that persons with disabilities are more than you see.

We wanted to create an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and abilities to come together, enjoy a common interest (live music!), and see beyond first impressions to the unique talents within.

The video shown that night asked persons with disabilities, "What makes you more than you see?" Responses, varied from "I’m a fisherman," to "I’m a good friend."

Around the event, artwork from talented artists were displayed. Susan DeLoff (acrylics), Margaret Miller (mixed medium), and Ian Rivers (photography) loaned some of their favorite pieces out for the evening.

Photographer, Ian Rivers, photographed many of the highlights from the evening (visit us on Facebook to view our photo album).

Friends, family members, and volunteers came together – each fearlessly dancing and singing along with our entertaining emcee, Gary Kroeger, and dueling pianos.

Thank you to all who supported this event – as a sponsor, participant, or volunteer.

The money raised through this benefit supports making the world a better place for persons with disabilities.

Specifically, much of the funds raised will make critical housing improvements – making homes more accessible and safe for persons with disabilities.

We invite you to join us for the next More Than You See dueling piano benefit. Save the date for April 2016!