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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2024
Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167
Partnership underscores MiABLE’s commitment to financial independence and inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — MiABLE proudly partnered with Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) on Thursday to celebrate the expansion of SOMI’s Unified Sports & Inclusion Center in Byron Center.
The event, which marked a major milestone for inclusion in Michigan, featured newly designed inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities.
MiABLE, a key sponsor of the new facility, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside dignitaries including SOMI President and CEO Tim Hileman and SOMI athletes including 55 participants in an athletic exhibition. MiABLE’s presence included an informational display at the facility’s MiABLE-sponsored sensory wall, where attendees could learn more about the disability savings program via a QR code.
Established in 2015, MiABLE allows individuals with disabilities and their families to save for future expenses without jeopardizing eligibility for government assistance programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income.
“Opening a MiABLE account empowers individuals with disabilities to improve their quality of life, including access to athletic and recreational opportunities,” said R. Scott de Varona, MiABLE program director. “Partnering with SOMI furthers our mission to open more doors of opportunity for people with disabilities.”
A highlight of the newly renovated facility is the MiABLE-sponsored sensory wall, designed to assist athletes and visitors with confidence-building. The interactive feature underscores MiABLE’s commitment to fostering inclusive environments and promoting financial independence.
“This wall is about inclusion,” de Varona said. “Just as MiABLE puts people on the path to financial independence, the wall provides a tool for people with disabilities to better navigate the building as they participate in athletic and recreational activities.”
Through partnerships like the one with SOMI, MiABLE continues to create opportunities that promote inclusion, both financially and through recreational access, for individuals with disabilities, as well as parents and caregivers.
MiABLE and SOMI share a common goal of promoting inclusion and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. Through partnerships like this, both organizations strive to create environments where people can thrive, whether through athletic participation or financial empowerment.
Webinars Available to Educate Families on MiABLE’s Benefits
As part of its ongoing outreach, MiABLE periodically holds informational webinars throughout the year to raise awareness about the financial tools available to individuals with disabilities. Attendees will learn how to open and use MiABLE accounts, explore qualified disability expenses and hear success stories from account holders. For more information or to open a MiABLE account online, go to www.MiABLE.org.
About MiABLE
MiABLE, established in 2015, stands for Michigan Achieving a Better Life Experience. The program allows individuals with disabilities to save up to $18,000 annually without risking eligibility for critical government assistance. MiABLE accounts grow tax-free and offer flexible options for expenses related to health care, housing, education and more.
About Special Olympics Michigan
Special Olympics Michigan provides year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, transforming lives and promoting inclusion through the power of sports.
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