Greenville CAN (Collaborative Action Network) was awarded new grants totaling $77,500 from Hollingsworth Funds, Graham Foundation and the Jolley Foundation to continue its mission of serving as a champion for disability related issues. The new grants will help Greenville CAN complete comprehensive strategic planning and continue the work initiated by The Barbara Stone Foundation, which launched Greenville CAN in 2013 to strengthen systems of support for the disability community.

Greenville CAN consists of self-advocates, service providers, families, caregivers and professionals all working towards reducing barriers to employment, increasing recreational opportunities, improving accessibility, and advocating for affordable housing and accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities in Greenville County.

“Three of the biggest challenges people with disabilities face are outdated stereotypes, false assumptions and limiting attitudes,” said Mike Teachey, Greenville CAN’s lead facilitator. “Our dedicated partner network has made significant progress since 2013 and now it’s time to leverage our work and chart a strategic and measurable path forward.”

Greenville CAN’s leadership team is led by co-chairs Laura Bratton of Laurens Road United Methodist Church and Robin Blackwood of Family Connection of SC and includes representation from Able SC, Barbara Stone Foundation, Bon Secours St. Francis, Bridges from Augusta, Broken Wing Farm, Center for Developmental Resources, Center for Disability Resources, City of Greenville Parks and Recreation, David’s Table, DDSN, Family Connection of SC, Greenville County Schools, Greenville Health System, Greenville Tech, Jeff Dezen Public Relations, LiveWell Greenville, Meyer Center, NAMI, Project Hope Foundation, Shriners Hospital for Children, SC Autism Society, SC Vocational Rehabilitation, Ten at the Top, Thrive Upstate, and Touch the Future.