Bobby Dodd Institute

Illuminating the Possibilities in Disabilities

Gabrielle Shropshire has a history of turning can’t into can. At six months old, Gabby was diagnosed with schizencephaly, a rare developmental birth defect that causes clefts in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain. Doctors told Gabby’s parents she likely would not be able to feed herself, read, or do many other “normal” things. Gabby is unable to walk or use her left side, but otherwise, she has defied every odd.

Now 18, Gabby is fiercely independent. So, when a missing safety switch prevented Gabby from operating her home elevator without assistance, the Shropshires turned to Bobby Dodd Institute. 

For over a year, the Shropshires worked with BDI’s Family Support team to source funding for the elevator safety switch. At last, they were able to purchase the switch, and Gabby began moving about the Shropshire home entirely on her own. “I like being independent,” she said. “It feels good to be able to go around the house without my parents’ help.”

Too often, people with disabilities face significant structural and cultural barriers to maximizing their potential and achieving full independence. BDI's programs break down these barriers so that people like Gabby can employ their strengths, contribute to their communities, and build sustainable futures.

For 40+ years, BDI has been a workforce innovation leader, employing people with disabilities and connecting them to resources for independent living. In 2023, BDI served 2,550 people with disabilities, with 93% of program participants who were connected to services reporting a stronger level of self-sufficiency, independence, and/or inclusion in the community. BDI's impact continues to grow as we launch new programs and extend our reach beyond Metro Atlanta.

But we need your help to do even more. 

According to U.S. Census data, nearly 80% of adults with disabilities were unemployed in 2022. Many families face a dearth of support as their children with disabilities age out of the school system. And Atlanta offers few affordable housing options for people with accessibility needs. Each of these challenges limits the potential of people like Gabby to lead full, independent lives.

Help BDI illuminate the possibilities in disabilities. When you give to BDI, you create economic and social opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families across Georgia.