Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page [ [link removed] ].
Office of the Texas Governor, Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities
Disability Employment Awareness Month Poster Contest Profile From Puzzle Pieces to Purpose: A Legacy of Inclusion in Motion
Grant Manier
In 2014, an 18-year-old Grant Maniér won the prestigious Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities’ Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) Poster Contest. This achievement marked more than just a milestone for him; it sparked a movement that he continues to pursue every day.
Living with autism, Grant transformed his passion for recycling and his love of puzzles into a remarkable initiative called EcoArt. Instead of simply assembling puzzles, he disassembles them and repurposes thousands of pieces into vibrant, textured art masterpieces. Through his creative process, he became known as “Jigsaw Grant [ [link removed] ],” a bold voice advocating for inclusion. His message is clear: every piece has a purpose.
Over the past decade, Grant has built an art career that exemplifies what employment for people with disabilities can be: innovative, meaningful, and driven by his ability, rather than defined by his disability. His work has raised over $500,000 for causes nationwide, supporting initiatives ranging from scholarships and hearing aids to resources for first responders. As an artist, author, educator, and entrepreneur, Grant continues to challenge perceptions and empower others.
Alongside his mother and manager, Julie Coy, Grant has also launched a literacy-focused book series that features dyslexia-friendly fonts. Additionally, he has led inclusive art and awareness programs that have reached audiences across the country. Their message of empowerment echoes through classrooms, corporate art collections, and community events.
As we look to celebrate DEAM this October, we would like to highlight individuals like Grant, whose journeys remind us that employment can take many different paths. It can be shaped by passion, supported by community, and driven by purpose.
This month, we invite Texans of all ages to participate in our 2025 DEAM Poster Contest. You can find out more information by clicking on the button below.
Let Grant’s story inspire your own. Use your art to express how you define your personal story or employment journey. Every piece matters, and every voice is valid. The deadline for submissions is June 30, so submit your art today!
DEAM Poster Contest [ [link removed] ]
The Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities provides GovDelivery updates for informational purposes on a variety of disability related issues for a diverse audience. Updates may include information provided by external sources. The inclusion of this external information does not constitute an official endorsement or approval by the Committee or the Office of the Governor of any information, policy, product, or service offered by an external source.
If you would like to be removed from the Governor’s Committee e-mail distribution list, click the "Unsubscribe All" link below or click the "Manage Subscriptions" link below to update your account preferences.
This email furnished by Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities.
Visit us online at gov.texas.gov/disabilities [ [link removed] ].
Manage Subscriptions [ [link removed] ] | Unsubscribe All [ [link removed] ] | Contact GCPD [ [link removed] ]
GovDelivery [ [link removed] ], Inc. sending on behalf of the Office of the Governor · P.O. Box 12428 · Austin TX 78711-2428 · 800-843-5789
