On Saturday, November 23rd, the Scarsdale Public Library hosted the second annual AbleBloom, a community event designed to highlight the talents of individuals with special needs. The event was co-hosted by Project Ready, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, and the IntraSpectrum Club, a student-led organization in New York that promotes the acceptance of individuals with autism.
AbleBloom saw a notable increase in participants compared to its first year, with a more diverse range of works on display. Over 120 pieces of artwork were showcased by 30 talented young artists with special needs, and 17 special-needs teens and adults gave impressive live performances, ranging from piano solos to martial arts displays. The event also celebrated 16 individuals with developmental disabilities who voted in the recent national election for the first time.
Lin Hongyu, the event’s organizer, explained that the inspiration for AbleBloom came from a simple goal: to showcase the abilities of children with disabilities to the public. While society often focuses on what these individuals cannot achieve, AbleBloom strives to demonstrate what they can do. In addition to the artistic talents displayed, the organizers stressed that children with special needs possess many other valuable skills that can contribute to the community—as long as they are given the opportunities to be accepted, to grow, and to live meaningful lives.
Beyond organizing the annual Ablebloom, Project Ready consistently works to build on its vision of integrating neurodivergent children into society. One of the largest components of their program is Sky Camp, an organization where high school students offer free online classes structured for children with neurological disabilities. Currently, there are 19 courses available at SkyCamp—ranging from phonics to social/language skills—and they are being taught to over 50 children.
“I enjoy teaching these kids because it allows me to share knowledge and connect with others,” Jerry Jin ’26, a volunteer at Sky Camp, shared.
Project Ready also hosts minicamps during Easter and Spring break where individuals with developmental disabilities come together to learn essential independent living and community integration skills: grocery shopping, cooking, and indoor and outdoor activities.
It is evident that organizations like Project Ready, through events like AbleBloom, are making a profound difference in the lives of neurodivergent children, creating pathways for them to thrive. These efforts not only help integrate them into the community but also celebrate their abilities, allowing them to grow and contribute in society.
