Starfire's Community Building programs enrich the lives of children and young adults with developmental disabilities, like Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy, in several ways: we work with approximately 600 people: one-on-one with 50 people (and growing!) comprised today of 16 kids ages 0-12, 15 youth ages 13-18 and 19 young adults ages 19-30, along with 320 family members and 300 caregivers and ordinary citizens to build a more inclusive, fuller life for people who have been marginalized and isolated because of their disability.

Our staff works to identify interests, passions and goals for children and young adults in an effort to remove barriers, create opportunities to meet and interact and spark relationships with ordinary citizens with whom similar interests are shared. 

We mentor the families of children and young adults to develop these interests and relationships by helping them create Valued Social Roles (VSRs) where they can be known for something other than their disability. And as those VSRs are established via volunteering, civic engagement, clubs and sports, our staff works with families and young adults to create and launch Community Projects: events or gatherings within their neighborhood or community that offer the opportunity for greater connectivity, awareness and the chance to be known for something other than their disability. We provide micro-grants to help offset the costs (refreshments, flyers, etc.) of each Community Project. And as a result, families, children, and young adults with developmental disabilities realize greater well-being, health and happiness.