The United Way of Indian River County recently concluded its highly anticipated 2025-2026 Powered by Purpose Speaker Series with a profound and necessary conversation surrounding local residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Hosted in Vero Beach by Northern Trust, this final session successfully united local community leaders, service providers, and families to discuss the systems designed to support these individuals, as well as the immediate need for greater inclusivity across the Treasure Coast.
The gathering commenced with a poignant video presentation titled One Question, which asked 35 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities what they would change about themselves. The responses resonated deeply with the Vero Beach audience. While some mentioned personal goals or shifts in outlook, not a single participant expressed a desire to change their disability. This unified response served as a powerful reminder of self-worth and set the tone for a discussion focused on community acceptance rather than individual limitation.
Local Leaders Address Systemic Gaps and Opportunities
A panel of dedicated regional experts led the conversation, featuring Heather Dales from The Arc of Indian River County, Kathy Davis of ServiceSource, and Tina M. Herzik of Abilities of Florida. Together, they mapped out both the impressive progress happening right here in Indian River County and the persistent gaps that continue to strain local families.
The central theme of the afternoon was access, specifically regarding how early intervention and strategic long-term planning shape an individual’s future. The panel detailed several critical local realities:
- Medicaid Waiver Backlogs: While families can apply for Medicaid waiver services—which unlock access to 27 essential supports—as early as age three, the current pre-enrollment waitlists are staggering. Families often face a 10 to 15-year wait. Panelists stressed that securing a waiver before a child turns 18 is crucial to avoiding severe transition challenges into adulthood.
- Employment Pathways: Beginning at age 14, Vocational Rehabilitation services offer education and workplace readiness. However, unlocking these opportunities relies heavily on Vero Beach and Indian River County employers willing to serve as training sites. Transportation limitations and funding constraints often act as barriers to these real-world learning experiences.
- Local Housing and Care Gaps: There is a pressing need for specialized care and housing within the county. Currently, there are 11 group homes serving the community—six of which are operated by The Arc of Indian River County. Unfortunately, due to a shortage of local specialized medical and therapeutic providers, some families are forced to travel as far as Miami for necessary care.
The Evolving Role of Technology
The panel also touched on the dual-edged nature of modern technology. On one hand, increasingly digital hiring processes and artificial intelligence can inadvertently screen out or disadvantage individuals who perform best in face-to-face interactions. On the other hand, innovations like smart home systems are revolutionizing daily life, allowing individuals with disabilities to live much more safely and autonomously within the community.
Throughout the afternoon, the call to action for Vero Beach residents and businesses was clear: meaningful progress requires a united community effort.
“Every individual deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and purpose. What we heard in this conversation is that the barriers facing individuals with disabilities are not about ability. They are about access. As a community, we have both the responsibility and the opportunity to remove those barriers by advocating, educating, and opening doors. When we do that, we don’t just change individual lives, we strengthen our entire community.”
The words of Meredith Egan, CEO of United Way of Indian River County, perfectly encapsulated the mission of the speaker series. By raising awareness, fostering local partnerships, and continuing to advocate for those who need it most, Indian River County can forge a stronger, more inclusive future for all its residents.
For those interested in learning more about the Powered by Purpose Speaker Series or getting involved with local initiatives, you can contact Deana Shately, Director of Community Impact at the United Way of Indian River County.
