Our Gear Up Florida team is having an incredible time riding across the state, forming genuine friendships and sharing unforgettable moments along the way. One stop we always look forward to is our visit with the MacDonald Training Center in Tampa, a Friendship Visit partner since 2000. “This experience is extremely meaningful for all the people that we provide services to," said Autumn Lee Jeffries, senior administrator over programming. "It allows our students to feel included in the community, which is really important because so often in many situations our students are excluded versus included.” For 25 years, MacDonald Training Center has welcomed our team with open arms. Each visit reminds us what this journey is really about: connection, inclusion and celebrating abilities. As Tyler Collins, Alpha Iota (Auburn), shared, “The Friendship Visits and the chance to build genuine connections with some truly incredible individuals are what made this journey so meaningful. I don’t think I’ve ever danced harder in my life, but getting to dance with people who had way better moves than I did made it all the more unforgettable.” This journey is not just about the miles; it’s about the people, the laughter, the dancing, and the opportunity to create a more inclusive world together. (fb)

Have you RSVP’d yet? We’re just days away from the inaugural Gear Up New York kickoff event, which will take place Tuesday, May 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Sixpoint Brewery (Brookfield Place). Join us for an evening of brotherhood, purpose and impact as we launch this exciting new cycling event from The Ability Experience. Riders will travel across the state this summer to raise awareness and support for people with disabilities, ending their journey in New York City this August! At the event, you’ll hear from Ability Experience leadership and staff about the vision behind Gear Up New York, connect with alumni and friends and meet Paralympic gold medalist Evan Austin, Eta Beta (Indiana) and board member Mike Davis, Psi (Cornell). Light appetizers and refreshments provided. It's free to attend, just RSVP using the link below! https://ow.ly/I6cN50VJIKe (fb)