A Community Where Every Ability Shines
In every community, some organizations quietly transform lives, building support systems where they are most needed and creating spaces where families can thrive. Along the Gulf Coast, Embrace Abilities has become one of those cornerstones—a nonprofit dedicated to serving children and families with special needs.
Founded in Ocean Springs, Embrace Abilities was built on a vision of inclusion, empowerment, and support. From the beginning, its purpose has been clear—to provide children and young adults with developmental and physical challenges the resources, opportunities, and community connections that allow them to live full, meaningful lives. That mission extends to families as well, recognizing that true empowerment comes when parents, caregivers, and siblings feel supported too.
For founder Bridgett Lee, the organization grew from her own family’s journey. “We started as a social group for children with disabilities,” Lee explained. “As my daughter got older, making friends became harder, so we began park meetups. From there, it evolved into a whole family support system—because disability doesn’t just impact the individual, it affects the entire family.”
That shift has defined Embrace Abilities’ growth. In just 18 months, the organization has registered more than 150 families across the Coast. Programs are built to serve everyone, from children with disabilities to their siblings and parents. “We’re still doing park meetups,” Lee said, “but now parents in our community are organizing them. Once a month, we do social meetups for our kids. We’ve split into two age groups—our Little Legends and our Legend Makers.”
Those playful names capture the heart of the group’s programs. Younger children enjoy activities like splash pad outings, while older kids work on building independence—whether bowling with friends or ordering ice cream at their own pace after hours at Quakes Creamery. “With the older group, we’re really focusing on independent living skills,” Lee noted.
For parents and guardians, Coffee with Caregivers has become a lifeline, offering both education and empathy. Guest speakers cover topics from behavior management to intensive outpatient care, but just as valuable are the moments of solidarity. “Sometimes it really helps to sit with people who live it and won’t judge you for saying, ‘this is really hard,’” Lee added.
Even siblings have a space through workshops designed just for them. “They often feel overlooked, not intentionally, but because their brother or sister needs so much attention,” Lee explained. “These workshops give them a chance to have fun and talk about their feelings with others who understand.”
What sets Embrace Abilities apart is its emphasis on integration rather than isolation. The group’s activities aren’t confined to just one city. Events have taken place in Pascagoula, Gulfport, Pass Christian, and beyond. By moving around the Coast and partnering with venues and schools, the organization meets families where they are.
As Embrace Abilities looks to the future, Lee dreams of a permanent space similar to The Social Club in Laurel, while keeping the flexible, pop-up model that has made the group so accessible. “I have big dreams,” she admitted. “But what makes us different is that we’re not just a nonprofit serving families—we are the families. The people leading these events are parents and caregivers in the thick of it. That’s what makes this work so powerful.”
With a mission that extends across the region, Embrace Abilities represents the very best of what local nonprofits can accomplish. Families who once felt isolated are finding community. Children who once struggled to be included are discovering new friendships. And the Coast itself is learning that true strength comes from embracing every ability.
Embrace Abilities
Fostering Friendships • Connecting Caregivers • Cultivating Community
www.embraceabilitiesms.org
info@embraceabilitiesms.org
