About Us
Why VELA
We believe, that all families of children with disabilities, especially those that are most marginalized, have a right to be included, access services and supports and belong-so that they can plan for and create full and ambitious lives. To create that life, parents must become their child's greatest advocates. But navigating all the systems that come along with disability- education, healthcare, community supports-can feel overwhelming and isolating. Below are just some of the systemic barriers families experience as they try to access the best for the child.
Our Values
Parents
as Experts
No one knows your child better than you. Our goal is to give you, the parent, the knowledge, support and community to create the best future for your child and family.
Honoring
Journeys
Each family walks their own path with disability. We honor that everyone moves through their experience differently and at their own pace. VELA meets you where you are on your path, walking beside you and leading with empathy first.
Creating What's Possible
Disability does not mean inability. We work to create access for our families by helping remove barriers. We dream big with our families.
Celebrating Differences
Disability brings diversity. At VELA, we celebrate that the world is a better place when we create access for everyone to participate, to be fully included and to be themselves.
Although we know we have had a great impact in the last 14 years, we know that the need is bigger. So we spent this last year creating our 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. Using an Equity Centered approach for planning and design, we now have our new focus areas. Over the next 6-12 months, VELA will be developing the structure to implement our new strategic plan, including clear measures for impact and accountability. This collaborative effort will involve our dedicated staff, board members, and the families we serve, ensuring a successful implementation. Read it here.
