Easterseals Partners with Heartland International Film Festival – Disability Film Challenge Screening

Free screening of Disability Film Challenge winners and finalists on October 11

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (October 4, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is excited to partner with the Heartland International Film Festival to highlight the 2022 winners and finalists of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge.

Created in 2013 by actor, comedian and producer Nic Novicki and launched in 2014, the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge gives filmmakers — with and without disabilities — the opportunity to collaborate to tell unique stories that showcase disability in its many forms, inviting aspiring storytellers to creatively write, produce and complete short films. The week-long filmmaking contest, which is open to all, provides a platform for new voices in the entertainment industry.

Heartland International Film Festival is offering a free screening of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge winners and finalists on Tuesday, October 11 at 7:30 p.m. The screening takes place at Deboest Lecture Hall at Newfields, located at 4000 N. Michigan Road in Indianapolis. Nic Novicki will be at the screening to present this year’s lineup. Order your free screening tickets by visiting: https://tickets.heartlandfilmfestival.org/schedule/free-screening-easterseals-disability-film-challenge-finalists-6318bf039d2eee00296464b0.

“I am so excited to come back to Indianapolis for the Heartland Film Festival. Every year it is such an honor to screen our finalist films at such a prestigious film festival alongside films that will end up being in the running for Oscars and Golden Globes consideration,” Novicki said. “This exposure helps provide opportunities for our film challenge participants, and that has always been the mission and the reason I created the film challenge.”

“Easterseals Crossroads is delighted to support the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge’s participation in the Heartland Film Festival,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “These amazing filmmakers and actors with disabilities are leading the way to 100 percent equity, inclusion and access for all people with disabilities and their families.”

The 31st Heartland International Film Festival takes place October 6-16. Heartland Film is a nonprofit arts organization that runs the 11-day Heartland International Film Festival in October, the Academy Award®-Qualifying Indy Shorts International Film Festival in July, the Truly Moving Picture Award and other year-round programs. Based in Indianapolis, Heartland Film was founded in 1991 with the mission to curate, promote and celebrate thoughtful and engaging films from diverse perspectives.

2022-10-05T16:55:14-04:00October 5, 2022|News Releases|

John Boner Neighborhood Centers Community Day

Easterseals Crossroads Hosts Community Day to Highlight Community Resources

Saturday, October 1, at John Boner Neighborhood Centers

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (September 26, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting a Community Day Event, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and in partnership with JPMorgan Chase, at John Boner Neighborhood Centers on Saturday, October 1.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at John Boner Neighborhood Centers, located at 2236 East 10th Street in Indianapolis. Easterseals Crossroads will provide free, on-site child development checkups; share information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability; and offer information about support services for veterans facing homelessness.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize not all people have equal access to what they need. Community Day events highlight resources available to people from a variety of partner organizations within the area,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads.

“We are grateful for this important partnership with Easterseals Crossroads,” said James Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the John Boner Neighborhood Centers. “This essential effort supports our IndyEast Promise Neighborhood initiative that promises access to great schools and whole-family support to ensure a successful transition from cradle to career.”

An exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways, information on programs for adults and children, games, food and fun. Highlights include food box distribution courtesy of Gleaners Food Bank and Eskenazi Health and diaper distribution courtesy of Indiana Diaper Bank as well as a financial journey information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase. In addition, HealthNet will be on site with a mobile unit, offering BMI, blood pressure and glucose screenings along with information and interactive games. The first 150 people also receive free lunch.

“Attending these Community Day events at the neighborhood centers sponsored by Easterseals Crossroads has been a wonderful way to connect with families and provide information and resources about Adult & Child Health,” said Carla Orr, team lead with Adult & Child Health. “As a vendor attending the event, I have gained information from the other vendors to share with my agency and have appreciated building relationships with the team members at the neighborhood centers.”

 

For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.

About John Boner Neighborhood Centers

John Boner Neighborhood Centers inspires neighbors and partners to improve the quality of life on the Near Eastside by providing tools for change and growth. To learn more about John Boner Neighborhood Centers, visit jbncenters.org.

 

 

2022-09-26T11:57:22-04:00September 26, 2022|News Releases|

MLK Center Community Day

Easterseals Crossroads Hosts Community Day to Highlight Community Resources

Saturday, September 17, at MLK Center in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (September 12, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting a Community Day Event, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and in partnership with JPMorgan Chase, at MLK Center on Saturday, September 17.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at MLK Center, located at 40 W. 40th Street in Indianapolis.

Easterseals Crossroads will provide free, on-site child development checkups; share information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability; and offer information about support services for veterans facing homelessness.

In addition, an exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways, information on programs for adults and children, games, food and fun. Highlights include food box distribution courtesy of Gleaners Food Bank and Eskenazi Health and diaper distribution courtesy of Indiana Diaper Bank as well as a financial journey information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase. The first 150 people also receive free lunch.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize not all people have equal access to what they need. Community Day events highlight resources available to people from a variety of partner organizations within the area,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads.

“Not everyone can easily access the things they need for their family – and may not even know what is available to them. Meeting people where they are, in their neighborhood, is essential,” said MLK Center Executive Director Allison Luthe.

For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.

About MLK Center

The MLK Center mission is to create a meaningful impact on the lives of those in the neighborhoods served, through quality, multi-generational programs that build community, invest in youth, empower families, advocate for neighbors and provide a peaceful space to connect. To learn more about the MLK Center, visit https://mlkcenterindy.org/.

2022-09-12T14:18:22-04:00September 12, 2022|News Releases|

Ability Awareness Day at Indiana State Fair

Easterseals Crossroads Sponsors Ability Awareness Day at Indiana State Fair on July 31

First-ever Ability Awareness Day includes sensory garden, adaptive sports

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (July 11, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has recognized the need and created a public platform for creating ability awareness. The first-ever Ability Awareness Day will be held at the Indiana State Fair on Sunday, July 31. Easterseals Crossroads is partnering with Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (RHI)/RHI Foundation, Bosma, Superior Van and Mobility, BraunAbility, JPMorgan Chase and Engledow Group, among other groups and organizations.

Easterseals Crossroads and its partners will host several booths along State Fair Boulevard that day, designed for attendees to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities — through enjoying sensory-friendly Midway hours, experiencing a sensory garden, learning how to play an adaptive sport and exploring an adaptive vehicle, among other activities.

“As a leading service provider and community resource for people with disabilities, we realize the need for inclusion, diversity and equity in all aspects of daily living,” said Easterseals Crossroads President and CEO David Dreith. “The Indiana State Fair has a 130-year history of welcoming all Hoosiers, and we are thrilled to partner with them on the first-ever Ability Day to open the fair. This long-awaited event will include a significant gathering of partners providing resources, information, contests, activities and fun! Hoosiers will not want to miss this day created to celebrate and recognize the ability of everyone in our state.”

Easterseals Crossroads is still looking for volunteers for Ability Awareness Day at the Indiana State Fair. If interested, please fill out the form here: https://bit.ly/3IEmm5j. Volunteers must be 18 years and older; but those 16 and older may volunteer with parents.

2022-07-12T09:28:31-04:00July 12, 2022|News Releases|

Community Day at Edna Martin Christian Center

Easterseals Crossroads Hosts Community Day to Highlight Community Resources

Saturday, June 11, at Edna Martin Christian Center in Martindale-Brightwood

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (June 2, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting a Community Day Event presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and in partnership with JPMorgan Chase at Edna Martin Christian Center on Saturday, June 11.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Edna Martin Christian Center’s Leadership and Legacy Campus, located at 2259 Ralston Avenue in Indianapolis.

Easterseals Crossroads will provide free, onsite child development checkups; share information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability; offer information about support services for veterans facing homelessness; and highlight career opportunities at Easterseals Crossroads.

In addition, an exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways; information on programs for adults and children; games; and food box distribution courtesy of Gleaners Food Bank and Eskenazi Health. Highlights include a meet and greet with Indiana Pacers Mascot Boomer from 12-1 p.m. as well as a financial journey information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize that not all people have equal access to what they need. Community Day events highlight resources that are available to people from a variety of partner organizations within the area,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads.

“We’re excited to partner with Easterseals Crossroads to bring so many wonderful community resources together for our Martindale-Brightwood neighbors,” said Trina Boyd, Family Ministries Coordinator/Social Capital Coordinator at Edna Martin Christian Center. “With a free lunch for our first 250 guests, games, crafts and a chance to meet Boomer, the Indiana Pacers Mascot, it is bound to be a great event!”

About Edna Martin Christian Center

The Edna Martin Christian Center’s mission is to invest in the lives of all in Martindale-Brightwood and surrounding neighborhoods through community-driven opportunities that foster stability, growth and a vision of hope. The Edna Martin Christian Center is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where individual differences are respected, appreciated and recognized as qualities that enrich the environment in which we work and serve.

To learn more about Edna Martin Christian Center, visit ednamartincc.org.

 About Easterseals Crossroads

As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. We provide top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals we serve. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.

 For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.

2022-06-06T11:19:51-04:00June 6, 2022|News Releases|

Community Day Highlights Resources for Far Eastside Community

INDIANAPOLIS (April 18, 2022) — Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, is hosting its Community Day at CAFE event, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, on Saturday, April 23.

This free, family-friendly event takes place from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE), located at 8902 E. 38th Street in Indianapolis.

Easterseals Crossroads will be providing free child development checkups on site and sharing information about employment services for individuals and families living with disability, support services for veterans facing homelessness and career opportunities at Easterseals Crossroads.

In addition, an exhibit hall of community partners will offer book giveaways, information on programs for adults and children, games and food. Highlights include a meet and greet and story time with Indiana Pacers Mascot Boomer from 12-1 p.m. as well as a financial journey mapping information session hosted by JPMorgan Chase at 1 p.m.

“As a leading provider of services for people with disabilities in central Indiana, we realize not all people have equal access to what they need,” said David Dreith, President/CEO of Easterseals Crossroads. “Community Day events provide an introduction to resources available to people from a variety of partner organizations within our area.”

“We are excited to collaborate with Easterseals Crossroads for the Community Day at CAFE event,” said CAFE Vice President of Communications and Engagement Cheria Caldwell. “Our mission is to provide resources and information to the community that improve quality of life and reduce barriers.”

CAFE is a resident-driven, neighborhood-based nonprofit organization that works to enhance the quality of life on the Far Eastside. CAFE provides basic needs such as rental and utility assistance, workforce development, food access and a two-generational approach that works to sustain the entire household. CAFE is committed to engaging youth, adults and seniors in a community network that strives to keep families strong, empowered and connected through opportunities for leadership, self-sufficiency, asset building and social activities.

For more about Easterseals Crossroads or to donate, visit www.eastersealscrossroads.org.

Learn more about CAFE.

2022-04-19T08:16:15-04:00April 19, 2022|News Releases|

Comcast NBCUniversal Awards Digital Literacy Grant

INDIANAPOLIS (March 16, 2022) — Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has been awarded a one-year $100,000 grant from Comcast NBCUniversal for the Comcast NBCUniversal Digital Literacy and Employment Program. The grant will help build a digital skills and employment training program for transition-age youth with disabilities.

The Comcast NBCUniversal Digital Literacy and Employment Program is for any young adult ages 18-24 with a diagnosed disability who is preparing to work in a competitive work environment. The project focuses on delivering targeted digital skills curriculum in the classroom combined with an internship that will allow each participant to demonstrate what they are learning in a real work setting.

“Digital literacy is critical for young adults with disabilities to maximize their full potential in school, at home and at work as they transition into the adult world,” said Easterseals Crossroads Vice President Bruce Schnaith. “Understanding how to use web browsers, search engines, email, text and blogs are essential skills to thrive in today’s digital world. Easterseals Crossroads is pleased to partner with national Easterseals and affiliates in Washington State and Massachusetts by sharing resources and best practices in offering digital learning opportunities for young adults with disabilities in our community.”

“To seriously address bridging the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to the internet, it’s important to take away barriers that might prohibit technology use,” said Tim Collins, Comcast’s regional senior vice president in the Heartland Region, which includes Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan. “By providing accessibility tools, training and technology to the clients of Easterseals Crossroads, we are helping to eliminate the obstacles associated with digital adoption and, thereby, enabling a sense of independence and fostering personal growth.”

Digital literacy and access to technology are two areas of strategic investment at Comcast NBCUniversal that empower people and create opportunities for those who need it most. Easterseals and affiliates throughout the country have been chosen by Comcast NBCUniversal for many grants and programs throughout the years.

Visit eastersealscrossroads.org for more about the services offered through Easterseals Crossroads.

About Easterseals Crossroads
As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and their families live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. We provide top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals we serve. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.

Comcast NBCUniversal logoAbout Comcast NBCUniversal  |  Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with 57 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

2022-03-17T09:41:33-04:00March 17, 2022|News Releases|

Easterseals Crossroads Receives Employment and Technology Awards

Annual awards recognize individuals with outstanding service in the field of employment for those with disabilities
Brandy Dickerson, a lead retention specialist at Easterseals Crossroads, received the IN-APSE Lois Curtis Personal Achievement Award – Person with a Disability.
Josh Anderson, ATP, BSPA, and Brian Norton, ATP, CEAS, accepted the IN-APSE Dave Hammis Innovation Award for the Easterseals Crossroads Assistive Technology Center.
INDIANAPOLIS (March 11, 2022) — Easterseals Crossroads is the proud recipient of two awards presented at the annual conference for Indiana ASPE (Association for People Supporting Employment). The conference took place Wednesday, March 9 and Thursday, March 10 at Marriott East Indianapolis.

Brandy Dickerson, a lead retention specialist at Easterseals Crossroads, received the Lois Curtis Personal Achievement Award, recognizing an individual’s personal achievement in advocating for inclusive, individualized, community-based employment and/or independent living.

“Brandy never lets her own disability (cerebral palsy) limit her in any area of her life; her personal goal is to educate and advocate on disability in her words and actions, yet most of all by example. Brandy’s motto in life is based on determination and never giving up. She believes that all things are possible when focusing on the end result,” said Easterseals Crossroads Director of Employment Programs Marjorie Duryea.

In addition, the Easterseals Crossroads Assistive Technology Center received the Dave Hammis Innovation Award, awarded to individuals or organizations who demonstrate innovation in the area of technology, customized strategies and/or self-employment for individuals with significant disabilities.

“The assistive technology program at Easterseals Crossroads consistently demonstrates exceptional outside-the-box, creative thinking when common technology solutions are not readily available for on-the-job accommodations,” said Easterseals Crossroads Vice President Bruce Schnaith. “These often non-technology solutions include one-of-a-kind devices and tools conceptualized and created to accommodate individual needs to ensure successful employment outcomes.”

IN-APSE is a membership organization formed in 1988 to improve and expand integrated employment opportunities, services and outcomes for persons experiencing disabilities.

About Easterseals Crossroads
As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and their families live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. We provide top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals we serve. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.
2022-03-11T08:17:27-05:00March 11, 2022|News Releases|

Century 21 Scheetz Partners with Easterseals Crossroads on $10,000 Raffle to Benefit People with Disabilities

Winner of $10 Grand in your Hand drawn on Thursday, March 17

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (February 15, 2022) – Easterseals Crossroads, a local nonprofit organization providing disability services, has partnered with Century 21 Scheetz and HSA Home Warranty to present the “$10 Grand in Your Hand” raffle to benefit programs and services for people with disabilities at Easterseals Crossroads. (License 000834)

One $10,000 prize winner will be drawn via Easterseals Crossroads Facebook Live on Thursday, March 17, at 12 p.m. EST.

Raffle participants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of ticket purchase. Tickets are $50 and will be sold February 15 through March 16 or until all 600 tickets are sold. According to charity gaming laws, tickets can only be purchased via cash or check. Only 600 tickets will be sold.

Since the raffle is only two days away, only in-person ticket sales are being processed. Please do not mail order forms as of March 14, 2022!

Easterseals Crossroads (Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.)

  • 4740 Kingsway Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46205 (317-479-3249)

Century 21 Scheetz Locations

  • 4929 East 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317-705-2500)
  • 270 East Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032 (317-844-5111)
  • 135 East Sycamore Street, Zionsville, IN 46077 (317-873-1700)
  • 11504 Lakeridge Drive, Fishers, IN 46037 (317-595-0021)
  • 1533 Olive Branch Parke Lane, Suite A, Greenwood, IN 46143 (317-881-2100)
  • 643 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317-814-5500)
  • 1155 South College Mall Road, Suite C, Bloomington, IN 47401 (812-336-2100)

Visit eastersealscrossroads.org for more about the services offered through Easterseals Crossroads.

 About Easterseals Crossroads

As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. We provide top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals we serve. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.

 About Century 21 Scheetz

Century 21 Scheetz is a valuable partner dedicated to making our community a better place to live, learn, work and play. For over 20 years, Century 21 Scheetz has supported Easterseals Crossroads as a vital resource for individuals and families in central Indiana.

 ###

2022-03-14T09:44:49-04:00February 15, 2022|News Releases|

Crossroads Document Services Partners with La Voz for Digital Collection

Representatives of Crossroads Document Services, a division of Crossroads Industrial Services; The Indianapolis Public Library; and La Voz de Indiana celebrate the launch of La Voz as the newest addition to The Library’s Digital Indy archive.
INDIANAPOLIS (October 18, 2021) — Crossroads Document Services, a division of Crossroads Industrial Services, recently partnered with La Voz de Indiana and The Indianapolis Public Library on the launch of a new La Voz digital collection.

On October 15, representatives of all three organizations gathered at the La Voz de Indiana offices, located at 2911 W. Washington Street, for a luncheon to celebrate the launch.

Crossroads Document Services scanned 424 editions — roughly 16,340 pages — of La Voz for The Indianapolis Public Library. La Voz de Indiana is the newest addition to The Library’s Digital Indy archive, which includes collections of documents, images, videos and recordings that highlight local history.

“To be able to see all of our hard work is beyond words right now,” said La Voz Vice President Jose A. Gonzalez-Parodi. “It’s been a long, hard road, and to be able to see someone else take the time to upload each edition, for all to see and view, it’s a powerful look back over 21 years of hard work, sweat and tears and how far we have come. It is a reminder to us of what we do and why we do it.”

Founded in 1999, La Voz de Indiana Bilingual Newspaper is published in both Spanish and English, embracing diversity by promoting understanding and improving communication between people.

The collection was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the Indiana State Library. It is part of the Indiana Memory program, a digital library that enables access to Indiana’s unique cultural and historical heritage through a variety of digital formats and free distribution over the Internet.

View the La Voz de Indiana collection online here.

About Easterseals Crossroads
As one of 68 Easterseals affiliates, Easterseals Crossroads has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 85 years. Whether helping someone improve physical mobility, return to work or simply gain greater independence for everyday living, Easterseals Crossroads offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. We provide top-quality, family-focused and innovative services tailored to meet the specific needs of the individuals we serve. For more, visit eastersealscrossroads.org.
2021-10-21T09:13:31-04:00October 20, 2021|News Releases|
Go to Top