Different By Design

06/11/2026

Groundwork’s mission is to provide strategic regional leadership, expertise and resources to strengthen communities for working families near employment, commercial and cultural centers in Arkansas.

06/11/2026

06/11/2026

Mentoring matters. 💜

Today at Gold Trap Boys & Girls Club Smart Girls, we had a great time creating marble art while talking about respecting ourselves, others, and our environment.

Small conversations and creative moments help shape the confident, kind, and respectful young women these girls will become.

More mentoring, learning, and fun coming soon! 🌟

06/07/2026

Different by Design was happy to participate in the Get on Board event at The Bakery! 💙

We appreciated the opportunity to connect with other organizations, community leaders, and individuals passionate about creating positive change in the River Valley. Events like this remind us how important collaboration and community involvement truly are.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by, asked questions, shared resources, and took the time to learn more about our mission to Build to Belong. We’re excited for the connections and partnerships ahead!

06/03/2026

TOMORROW❗

Join us for Get on Board: A Mixer for Nonprofits & Business Leaders!

This networking event connects local nonprofits with community and business leaders interested in serving on nonprofit boards. Meet organizations, build connections, and explore opportunities to get involved.

📍 Center for Economic Development at The Bakery District
🗓 Thursday, June 4
⏰ 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
💲 Free!

05/22/2026

Summer is here ☀️

Families may not realize there are discounted or free outdoor recreation perks for some individuals with disabilities.

A few to check:

🏕️ Arkansas State Parks
Some individuals with permanent and total disabilities may qualify for 50% off standard campsite fees.

🎣 Arkansas Game & Fish
Arkansas residents with qualifying permanent disabilities may be eligible for discounted fishing or hunting/fishing licenses.

🌲 America the Beautiful Access Pass
A free lifetime pass for individuals with permanent disabilities to access many federal recreation sites.

Basic steps:
1️⃣ Gather disability documentation
2️⃣ Check eligibility with the agency
3️⃣ Ask what proof they accept
4️⃣ Apply before your trip

Not every autistic child will automatically qualify, so always verify the current requirements.

Families deserve access to fun, affordable community experiences too. 💙

05/22/2026

Pull ups and daily care supplies can be a real expense for many families raising children with disabilities.

Some children and adults may qualify for incontinence supplies through Medicaid or insurance when they are medically necessary. Coverage depends on age, diagnosis, documentation, and the person’s insurance plan.

A few companies and providers families in the River Valley area often contact include:

📍 Family Choice Nutrition & Medical Supply
☎️ 501-753-9393 (Will help you with the process if you contact them first)

📍 1 of a Kind Medical Services – Fort Smith
4500 Rogers Ave Suite 2, Fort Smith, AR 72903
☎️ 479-785-9222

Basic steps to apply:

1️⃣ Talk to your child’s doctor about medical necessity.

2️⃣ Ask for a prescription and supporting documentation.

3️⃣ Contact a medical supply company and ask if they work with your Medicaid or insurance plan.

4️⃣ Complete any paperwork they send you.

Families deserve clear information, support, and dignity when meeting everyday care needs. 💙

05/22/2026

Many families don’t realize that people with disabilities can save money in an ABLE Account without automatically losing benefits like SSI or Medicaid.

Think of it like a regular bank account made for disability related needs.

For example, if your child gets SSI and you want to save money for things they may need later, an ABLE Account can help you do that without the money counting the same way a normal savings account would.

ABLE Accounts can help pay for things like:

🏠 Housing
🎓 School
🚗 Transportation
🩺 Medical or therapy expenses
💻 Assistive technology
💼 Job training and transition supports

This can be a helpful way to plan ahead, build stability, and support more independence.

Families deserve to know what tools are available. 💙