Fostering understanding, acceptance, and empathy toward people with disabilities is the purpose behind Creating S.P.A.C.E., a remarkable nonprofit organization that is making a significant impact by entering schools and teaching children how to have comfortable conversations surrounding all kinds of disabilities. Led by Lindsey Blankenship, director, and Kati Cahill, program director, Creating S.P.A.C.E. aims to eradicate the stigma and shame often associated with disability—both seen and invisible—by empowering students, parents, and communities to embrace differences and create a culture where disability is a comfortable conversation, not a topic to avoid.
Lindsey, the Colorado chapter president for the Foundation Fighting Blindness, is a passionate advocate for the disability community. Lindsey's personal experience with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic retinal disease, is causing her to lose her sight. Her firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities fuels her commitment to fostering open dialogue and removing barriers to communication.
Kati, the program director of Creating S.P.A.C.E., is a devoted educator and community builder. As the principal at Humanex Academy in Englewood, Colorado—a school catering to neurodiverse learners—Kati brings her expertise in curriculum design, as well as her passion for teaching and learning, to the organization. Kati's commitment to creating safe and inclusive spaces for all students to thrive aligns perfectly with the mission of Creating S.P.A.C.E.
Creating S.P.A.C.E. also recognizes the importance of personal stories in cultivating understanding and connection, so including speakers with disabilities is one of the key factors of the program. One such speaker, Buck Latta, shares his powerful story of overcoming challenges and embracing life "one arm at a time." His resilience and determination inspire students and adults alike. Kati also shares her experiences growing up with scoliosis and a spinal fusion in a time when accommodations for disabilities weren’t as prevalent as they are now. These stories and others can be read at creatingspace4.com/stories.
Creating S.P.A.C.E. offers a comprehensive one-week program for elementary school students, parents, and community members. The program provides resources and facilitates conversations about disabilities and differences while promoting kindness and empathy. Each day focuses on a specific theme related to the core values of Creating S.P.A.C.E.—storytelling, permission, acceptance, curiosity, and education. Through interactive lessons and activities, participants develop a deeper understanding of disabilities and learn how to create safe and accepting spaces. The program includes in-person classes for students, an education night for parents, and resources for continuing the conversation at home and school.
Recognizing that conversations on disabilities should extend beyond schools, Creating S.P.A.C.E. also offers professional and community programs that aim to equip workplaces and communities with the tools and knowledge to foster inclusive environments. Through workshops and training sessions, participants learn about safe spaces, storytelling, permission, appropriate language, and the importance of education. These initiatives enable individuals to engage in comfortable conversations about disabilities, which helps to promote understanding and break down barriers.
Creating S.P.A.C.E. believes in the power of collaboration and actively seeks partnerships with schools, community organizations, and businesses. By building strong alliances, the organization hopes to expand its reach and create lasting change on a broader scale. The founders are dedicated to the long-term growth and impact of Creating S.P.A.C.E. and have aspirations of reaching more schools and communities, empowering students, and fostering a society where disability is viewed as a natural part of the human experience.
Creating S.P.A.C.E. stands as a shining example of an organization that is transforming the way we think and talk about disabilities. Through their educational programs and initiatives, they are creating a culture of acceptance, empathy, and understanding. Lindsey, Kati, and their team are driving real change by encouraging comfortable conversations about disabilities in schools, workplaces, and communities. As we move forward, it is vital that we continue to support organizations like Creating S.P.A.C.E. that strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Together, we can build a future where disabilities are celebrated, and everyone is valued for their unique abilities.
For more information about Creating S.P.A.C.E., visit creatingspace4.com or email Lindsey at lindsey@creatingspace4.com.
