~To empower, educate and connect those living without both arms or more

Skills for Life 6 Slideshow

June 2023

Newsletter

Message from the Executive Director

Hello Everyone!


Our team is growing! Join us in welcoming Enhancing Skills for Life's newest team member, Renee Orsak, Marketing Associate. Renee joins us in the passion for our mission - to educate, empower and connect those living without both arms or more. We’re so excited to have her on board and look forward to taking our marketing to the next level. Welcome, Renee!!!


A Message from Renee...

In 2018 we officially became a part of the limb loss community. My dad's name is James (JJ) and his life-changing accident affected us all. He lost his left above the below, his right arm below the elbow and 33% of his body was burned. I have had the privilege of living with my parents as a single mom for the past 2 years and have seen how my dad has grown through the resources and community ESFL has brought him. It's inspired me to get more involved, putting my personal skills and passion to use. I hope to serve the ESFL community and their families by connecting with them on deeper levels. I can't wait to meet EVERYONE someday and be a part of future events/workshops!  I am always up for chatting about what you all want to see on our social pages! Please feel free to reach out and be on the lookout for my friend requests/follow/connections!


You may notice a new spruced up appearance for our monthly newsletter. Thanks you, Alyssa Daniels, (OTD Capstone student) for this much appreciated update!


For certain parts of the world, travel/vacation season is here, and it's time to embark on exciting adventures! We would like to encourage you all to embrace travel and explore the world. Whatever your preference, travel is for everyone. Plan ahead, research accessibility options, and don't hesitate to ask for assistance when needed. We have included a few travel resources below. Be confident, adaptable, and open to new experiences. Let this be a time of discovery, growth, and unforgettable memories. Safe travels!

Renee Orsak, ESFL Marketing Associate

Travel - Resources & Tips

Kim Gilliam


"I drive a regular vehicle with no adaptive equipment installed. I was very fortunate. Shepherd where I did my evaluation said he could put a knob on my steering wheel but I chose not to. They have vehicles that everything can be modified to suit your needs." - Kim Gilliam

AMS Vans


At AMS Vans, we sell wheelchair vans to consumers and we’re here to help you sell your vehicle. We offer a couple ways to do this -- either in our "for sale by owner" Mobility Classifieds, or directly to us.

Freedom Motors


We believe that everyone deserves a choice; not everyone wants a full-sized wheelchair van, and Freedom Motors USA provides alternatives, including converted SUV’s.

Tips for Traveling with Limb Loss or Limb Difference



Are you longing for an adventure this summer? Don’t let limb loss or limb difference hold you back from visiting friends and family or exploring new places.


Full Article & YouTube Video

Air4All Wheelchair Securement Space


Delta Flight Products has unveiled the first prototype of its wheelchair securement space at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg, Germany, built in partnership with the Air4All Consortium of Flying Disabled, SWS Certification, Sunrise Medical and PriestmanGoode.


USA Today Article



Guest Contributor: Mental Health Matters


Check out this helpful infographic that lists a few easy ways to unplug in your daily life.

Guest Contributor

Sandy Crisp, LPC-A, CRC, LCDC

Get Involved!


Thank you to those who contacted us over the past two months! We are excited to see what's in store for ESFL. We are still looking for help, so let us know if you have time, experience, resources, or referrals/connections with any of the below.

  • Scholarship Committee
  • SFL 7 Planning Committee (will likely start communicating in Summer 2024)
  • Board of Directors


Upcoming Events & Programs

July

7

Hanger Clinic Empowerfest

July 7-9, 2023

Salt Lake City, Utah

August

2

Amputee Coalition National Conference

August 2-5, 2023

Orlando, FL



Various


Camp No Limits

Through October 2023

Various US Locations

October

7

Andy Mattox's Rock & Bowl Fundraiser


Andy's weekend's events are as follows:

Saturday, October 7th

-Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Tour (AM)

-Dinner and a live Elvis performance at VFW Post 5137 (PM)

Sunday, October 8th

-Doubles Bowling Tournament


Scholarship Application

ESFL Resources

Donate Today!

Meet Our Team

Change a Life, Donate Today



The Skills for Life workshop was developed in 2002 with a specific focus on people living without both arms or more and the unique set of circumstances they face on a daily basis. The nonprofit was founded in 2017 to ensure we could continue supporting the members of our community with programs, events, resources, and connections. Please click the Venmo or PayPal donate buttons in this section to donate. PayPal allows you to donate via your account or with a credit card. Venmo requires you to have an account. Donations can also be made via check, payable to Enhancing Skills for Life, 16111 Park Center Dr, Houston, TX 77059.


Any and all donations, large or small, are greatly appreciated! 

Enhancing Skills for Life, 501c3 Tax ID: 81-2619137. 

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