Inclusion Matters

DECEMBER 2024

Embracing Change: A Journey Through Art, Connection, and Self-Discovery

World renowned artist, Andy Warhol, once said, “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” Kevin Mulder, 34, has admired Warhol’s illustrations and overall body of work for many years. Coincidently, it is Kevin who illustrates just how true this quotation of Warhol’s is.

Kevin’s journey has been marked by a deep passion for art, a growing social network, and an overall commitment to trying new things in pursuit of all that life has to offer. But these things have not come without much support from his loved ones and Advocates, as well as a lot of resolve and personal growth on his part. 

Despite his being described as a kind and caring person from a young age, engaging with others, making friends, and participating in communal events did not come naturally to Kevin because of his disability. “In general, he used to be much more reserved, and opening up to things was very hard for him,” his mother, Marybeth said, adding that challenges with communication only made it harder for him to socialize. “He’d never get involved with group activities, and that lack of social interaction wasn’t good for his development.” 

For as long as he can remember, Kevin has been fascinated with art, and because it’s a hobby he can enjoy despite the challenges presented by his disability, his artistic work always seemed to fill a void in his life. His deep-rooted interest in art led to a talent that extends beyond personal enjoyment - he has completed beautiful, commissioned pieces for clients, including custom artwork for family friends and businesses. His creativity knows no bounds, and he’s always eager to take on new projects. His work reflects his diverse interests, blending pop culture and personal expression in a unique way that resonates with others, much the same way Andy Warhol’s does. Best of all, Kevin has evolved not only as an artist but also as a person over time. With the encouragement and guidance of his family and mentors, Kevin has grown both personally and socially. What were once major obstacles for him are now thankfully a thing of the past.

“I like that I’m out of my comfort zone because it’s opened up a lot of doors for me,” Kevin told us. Though some of this growth is because of Kevin’s own self-determination, his parents emphasized the importance that his Mentor of nearly four years, Deb Cavanaugh, plays in his life. “Deb has helped him grow in ways none of us ever imagined,” Marybeth said. “She has definitely been the lynchpin to his success,” his father, Jim, added. “It was Deb who suggested that he get involved with Front Row Players, and then those connections later led to his participating in other things such as the Special Olympics.” 

Through his involvement in these fulfilling community programs, Kevin has learned to engage more deeply with others, developing meaningful friendships and a greater sense of purpose. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Kevin has become quite passionate about fitness. This passion and determination recently resulted in a noteworthy accomplishment – winning a bronze medal in his weight class at the 2024 Special Olympics at Ithaca College. His commitment to weightlifting is supported by his personal trainer through Trillium Fitness, Tyler May, who works with individuals in the neurodivergent community.

“Kevin has been lifting with me for a year, and the leaps and bounds he’s made are astounding,” Tyler said. “It’s not just his determination or focus; he’s always all smiles, and he’s an absolute pleasure to work with.” Kevin trains intensely, participating in weightlifting, bench press, and other strength exercises, and is looking forward to future competitions.

Tyler isn’t the only one who has admired just how far Kevin has come in a relatively short time. “With his mentors, his horizons have expanded like you wouldn’t believe,” said Kevin’s Support Broker at Advocates, Reina Campbell. “To watch people like Kevin grow and do things they wouldn’t have done in the past is amazing.” 

Despite the immense strides he has taken in recent years, Kevin isn’t stopping there. Looking ahead, he aspires to continue honing his artistic skills while exploring additional opportunities for personal and professional growth. Outside of art and fitness, Kevin enjoys a variety of hobbies, including watching movies with friends, attending Broadway shows, karaoke, and playing mini golf. He now has a lively social life, often attending outings and events with friends - something his parents are particularly proud of, given how he was once so introverted. He shares his parents’ sense of pride when it comes to giving back to his community. Delivering meals to seniors through Meals on Wheels keeps him active, engaged, and fulfilled. “I like delivering meals to them because it makes them happy,” Kevin said with a smile.

With a heart full of ambition, a supportive network of mentors and family, and a growing social circle, there’s no limit to what Kevin can achieve. One of the most significant aspects of his journey has been his connection with Advocates, an organization that has played a crucial role in helping him become more active and independent. His parents noted how integral Advocates has been in supporting their family and helping Kevin thrive.

“It’s just been critical in getting the supports he needs to get into the community and become active and independent,” Jim said. “Advocates has been there for the things that every parent worries about. We’re extremely grateful.”

In turn, Advocates is grateful to Kevin’s parents, his support team at Advocates, community supports like Tyler May, and everyone else who has played a nurturing role in his life. “I can see Kevin achieving anything that he sets out to do these days,” Reina said. With the foundation of support he has and now the drive to succeed, Kevin’s future is beyond bright.

Do you have a friend or family member who

would make a great Mentor?

If so, please encourage them to apply on our website.

We look forward to meeting them!

Advocates' Annual Holiday Party is this weekend, and there is still time to register!

Our Holiday Party will be held at Driver’s Village on Sunday, December 8th from 2:00pm-4:30pm in the Carnegie event area located between the Mazda & Lincoln dealerships. Entertainment (music provided by a DJ, pictures with Santa, crafts, bounce house) and a light lunch will be provided.

Please join us for what is always an enjoyable

and festive afternoon!

Join us for Advocates night at the Syracuse Crunch!

The Syracuse Crunch is offering discount tickets to people/families receiving services from Advocates along with employees. Join us on Saturday, Dec. 14th at 7pm as the Syracuse Crunch take on the Utica Comets

Discount tickets ($20) can be purchased by contacting

Emily Kissinger: (315) 473-4444 ext. 126 or online at: www.syracusecrunch.com/advocates using promotional code: ADVOCATES

Since 1995, Advocates has been dedicated to making the world a better place for people with disabilities. We have a rich history of positively impacting lives and advancing our mission through offering quality service delivery and meaningful initiatives.

We hope you will commit to making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities by donating to Advocates’ Annual Appeal. Gifts of any amount are appreciated! Your donation is tax-deductible, and we will provide you with a receipt for tax purposes.

Your support is not just a donation; it is an investment in the future for children and adults with disabilities. Together, we can make a difference!

Thank you so much for your consideration and generosity!

To make your donation, please click the button below

or mail your check to:

Advocates Incorporated

290 Elwood Davis Road, Suite 101

Liverpool, NY 13088

Did you know?

Advocates collaborates with Syracuse University and Syracuse Stage to offer individuals opportunities to express themselves while enhancing their acting skills.

The All Star C.A.S.T. (Community Actors and Students Theater) was formed more than thirty years ago in the Syracuse University Drama Department in an effort to provide an outlet in Theater Arts for young people with disabilities. Each semester, a group of actors and drama student-facilitators meet weekly to promote community inclusion, showcase individuals' unique talents, and to help all participants experience the joy of learning through creative play. The group aims to provide a safe, non-judgmental zone in which all participants can explore their creative voice through dancing, singing, and acting.

At the end of November, the All Star C.A.S.T. held their final performances of the semester to display the participants' individual and collective creative spirits. The performances were the culmination of weeks of collaboration and camaraderie, and allowed the individuals the opportunity to showcase their talents with friends and family who attended.

Advocates sends its sincere thanks to Hanni Schwarzlander, Acting Instructor for S.U's Department of Drama, her instructor counterpart, Kath Fathers, and their caring, patient, and talented student facilitators. Their collective efforts not only guided students in their learning journey but also fostered an environment where they could forge bonds of camaraderie while making the learning experience enjoyable and memorable!

Did you know?

Advocates' Executive Director, Amy Dugliss, and Self-Advocate, Nicholas Courgi, collaborate each month to bring you an Advocates-themed podcast! The Inclusion Matters Podcast can be found by searching "Inclusion Matters Advocates" on Amazon Music and Spotify.

We hope you'll tune in monthly to hear inspiring stories from Advocates!

In case you missed it

Check out a previous month's spotlight on Nicholas Courgi himself!

To the people and families that inspire us throughout the year -

we feel privileged to have the continued

opportunity to grow together!

To our dedicated employees - we thank you for your commitment to making a difference in the lives of the people and families that we support!

From the Advocates family to your family,

we wish you a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season!