INDIANAPOLIS — Rising Pursuit Services, a non-profit on the northeast side of Indianapolis, is gearing up for a unique event aimed at supporting adults with developmental disabilities. The organization, known for providing a range of health services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is set to host The Rising Couture Fashion Show as a fundraiser.
The primary goal of the fashion show is to raise funds to purchase a bus that will facilitate transportation for program participants. Many of these adults face challenges accessing community activities independently, making reliable transportation essential.
For 24-year-old Carlos Crawford, attending Rising Pursuit Services’ adult day program has been transformative. “I locked myself in my room all day, wouldn’t do anything, wouldn’t exercise nothing,” Crawford shared. “It just gives me a new meaning on socializing.”
Crawford, who deals with a learning disability, PTSD, major depression disorder, anxiety, and ADHD, emphasizes how the program has provided him with a supportive environment where he can socialize without judgment.
“We love just supporting them and giving them that safe, sound place to come and not feel judged,” said Raven Powell, co-founder of Rising Pursuit Services, alongside Alexis Burrus.
Burrus, with experience in residential care, and Powell, a registered behavior technician, founded the organization with a vision to create a nurturing environment for individuals transitioning out of high school at age 22.
Since its opening in January 2024, Rising Pursuit Services has focused on fostering skills beyond basic activities, encouraging teamwork, self-encouragement, and personal growth among its participants.
“One of the main challenges we face is transportation,” explained Burrus. “They’re learning how to work together, encourage each other, and encourage themselves. So I think it’s amazing to see.”
The Rising Couture Fashion Show not only aims to showcase the creativity and talent of its participants but also to raise community awareness and support for their ongoing needs. By providing accessible transportation, Rising Pursuit Services hopes to further empower its members to engage fully in community life.
The event reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and creating opportunities for personal development among adults with developmental disabilities in Indianapolis.
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