Thrive’s Mission

Thrive’s mission is to provide young disabled women like you support to achieve your goals and independence. When you’re transitioning into an adult, life is filled with tough decisions and support is crucial. We’re here to share learnings and supports online so young disabled women everywhere can feel the mentorship and fellowship that helps us be our best!

What We Do

Thrive is an online community of Easterseals created specifically for young disabled women. We offer various digital avenues for connection including this website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, live events, a book club, and more. Thrive's events are completely free, and you can take part just by following us on social media!

Our Goals

Bring Disabled Women Together

It is common for disabled women to feel isolated and alone because of society's inaccessibility and ableism. Thrive wants to show women like you that there are so many people out there that can relate to what you're going through – both the ups and the downs. Thrive also helps to present options for interdependence through interaction with other disabled women who have access to knowledge that can positively change your life.

Create Positive Identities

Through our resources, you should come away with a better understanding of yourself. Positive self-image is one of the most important traits to have when going after a goal or taking advantage of an opportunity. We focus on self-advocacy and empowerment to help you become the person you want to be.

Furthering Easterseals' Mission

The Thrive community strongly advances Easterseals' mission of providing opportunities for disabled people to achieve their full potential.

Easterseals is a non-profit organization that provides services for children and adults with disabilities, caregivers, and veterans and their families. We've been helping families for over 100 years, assisting more than 2 million individuals annualy at more than 550 Easterseals service sites across the country.

Team Thrive

Thrive is a community for young disabled women started by Sandy Ho. It is now led by:

picture of Erin, wearing blue glasses, long hair and smiling

Erin Hawley: Digital Content Producer and Manager

"I am passionate about Thrive's goal to empower and build community for young disabled women. I wish I had access to this support group growing up. I'm proud of what Thrive has accomplished so far, and we've really only just begun!"

sandy2 Desiree Forte: Youth Services Manager

"I have been involved in Easterseals youth programs for many years and I am so happy to now get the opportunity to help run them. The Easterseals woman's Thrive program is a program that I feel very personally connected to." Read More.

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