By Molly Cerreta Smith
One Step Beyond aims to provide “dynamic programs and services” to those with intellectual disabilities to allow then to achieve their goals and become fully participating members of their communities. The organization was founded in 2003 and inspired by one families desire to provide a post-high school program for their daughter, Dylan, as well as her peers, that would offer opportunities to develop skills, personal relationships and inclusion within the community.
Some of One Step Beyond’s goals for the community they serve include:
• Increasing community awareness, knowledge and respect for people who have disability
• Optimizing access to community resources and services
• Creating partnerships to remove barriers and open doors to full inclusion within the community
• Changing the workplace to incorporate the strengths and abilities of people who have disability
• Maximizing opportunities and choices to promote optimal independence and self-reliance
• Providing progressive, dynamic, and empowering programs and services to enhance the lives of individuals who have disability
The organization offers multiple programs to help participants to build strong, positive relationships with their peers while enjoying all aspects of community life including life skills training, vocational and culinary training and employment, fine arts, music, dance, fitness, Special Olympics, One Step Coyotes ice hockey team which is supported by the NHL and after-hours programs such as Friday Fun Night and Saturday Social activities and an annual overnight trip called New Frontiers. Transportation services are also provided.
One Step Beyond is a 501©3 and 100 percent of donations made from the public goes directly towards the sustainability and growth of the organization’s many programs, and may be tax deductible as charitable contributions and up to $400 (individual) or $800 (joint filing) tax credit from the state of Arizona. Donations can be made online at: www.osbi.z2systems.com/np/clients/osbi/donation.jsp.
In addition, One Step Beyond is grateful for any donations of supplies needed to support their course programs. One Step Beyond can be selected as a charity of choice through AmazonSmile, and every time a purchase is made through AmazonSmile, a portion of the purchase price is donated to their cause. Donation items include: markers, crayons, glue, pens, pencils, construction paper, notebooks, scissors, magnets, Expo dry erase markers, hula hoops, popsicle sticks, balloons, dice, disinfectant wipes, yarn, string, beads, paint (water colors, acrylic, etc.), paint brushes, rulers, card decks, felt fabric, highlighters, ping pong balls, baking soda, white vinegar, fake money, salt, flower pots, flower seeds, flower vases, water balloons, sun screen, food coloring and Ziploc bags and more.
To learn more about donations, financial or otherwise, or how to enroll a member into the programs, visit www.osbi.org.
