The BIG GIVE SA 2019

What we want to change: 

We want everyone who needs specialized therapies to have access to them. Today, individuals of all ages with special needs and disabilities from many backgrounds are not receiving the specialized therapies they need in a timely manner or as long as they need them to receive the infinite benefit possible. That is not right and we want to change it. 

Mission/Vision: 

Project Infinity’s mission is to “empower individuals in need through therapies that encourage infinite growth and greater quality of life.” Our vision is to see “Individuals living life to their fullest potential.”

Why are people in need: 

There are many issues for those with a family member who has a disability, disorder, or disease. These are some: 

-Having a disability straps family resources in multiple ways and at every income level.

-For a variety of reasons, often those with disabilities have neglected health issues.

-Early diagnosis of any disorder is essential for best possible outcomes with specialized therapies. 

-In Texas, the waiting [interest] list for some Medicaid Waiver programs is up to eleven years long. 

-Third party payers limit coverage. 

-The prevalence of children with special needs and disabilities is increasing. 

-Necessary specialized therapies may not continue through life or diagnosis changes. Medicaid Waiver programs are mutually exclusive and do not provide comprehensive coverage.

-There are not enough community-based locations and opportunities for those with disabilities to practice what they learn in therapy. 

What are specialized therapies: 

Specialized therapies such as music therapy, recreation therapy, art therapy, and animal-assisted therapy are effective since the participant already has an existing interest in some aspect of them. Trained therapists in each discipline capitalize on this interest when treating a myriad of special needs, disabilities, and injuries. Using a social, cultural, or recreational interest as a therapeutic tool increases the effectiveness of the intervention. Taking all of the elements of a sport, music, art, or pet and using them to address treatment goals is a hands-on way to intervene in and change negative behaviors. 

Who are we: 

Project Infinity is a nonprofit organization founded by Brooke Cortez, MSW, NMT, MT-BC and Leticia Gonzalez, CTRS co-owners of Imagine Therapies in October 2014. In their capacity as professional therapists at work in the community they identified a profound need for specialized therapies for all ages. Joined by fellow therapists and involved community members they identified a group and individual therapy program to meet that need. 

How we are solving the problem: 

Credentialed, licensed, and experienced therapists assisted by volunteers will facilitate group and individual sessions in community settings focused on Social Skills/Recreational/Music Therapy; Health, Wellness, and Nutrition; Community Integration; and Vocational Training. Participants will be coached in appropriate behaviors and interactions, learn to advocate for themselves, and work through challenges of their individual need. 

What we need to accomplish the change: 

Project Infinity needs you to share our vision with others. We need to get our message to those in need. We need monetary support. Although we ask participants to pay a small fee for services, this does not cover the cost of our organization. With your help we will meet our annual budget with a combination of contributed and earned income.