yes to yes! of america united
I talked to Becki Forsell the other day. She’s the human dynamo behind YES! of America United, a small group in Tampa dedicated to helping the disabled live full lives.
YES! isn’t the government. There’s no case management, no income criteria, or disability standard for belonging. YES! is people with disabilities helping people with disabilities.
The YES! center on Busch Boulevard doesn’t babysit nor does it offer respite for caregivers. Rather, it’s home to a thriving, busy community where the goals include plain old neighboring, friendship building, making connections, sharing resources, learning to use computers, honing advocacy skills and sharing experiences that help make living in a world that is not always friendly to those with disabilities a little easier.
Oh, there are also craft classes, field trips, seminars popping popcorn and watching movies.
It’s not sturm und drang at all.
That is not Forsell, whose laugh could raise the dead.
Forsell’s upbeat attitude has, no doubt, contributed to the significant success she’s had in the last 10 years making a huge difference in the Tampa community. She was named the 2005 United Way volunteer of the year in human services; has been named a presidential “Point of Light” and also received a similar award from the state. She has also been honored twice in the WEDU Be More Awards.
Of course, she is relentless. She never gives up. And she definitely sees the glass as half full, rather than half empty.
This year, YES! was in line to receive $300,000 from the state. Then came the property tax revolt. So the amount was cut to $50,000. Forsell isn’t complaining, mind you, particularly given the cuts that other human service agencies may face. She’s grateful for what YES! got. But now she’s trying to figure out where to come up with some more cash to keep the center open.
If you have deep pockets and an interest in disability issues, send an email to yesunited2@msn.com. If you have creative fund raising ideas, do the same.
YES! needs a helping hand.
Tags: good works, non-profit, tampa
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