At FWA, we believe in creating a world where everyone regardless of ability has access to friendship, opportunity, and joy. From monthly Connect & Thrive meetups to seasonal special events, FWA brings people together in safe, accessible, and uplifting environments.

Whether it’s smiles and support animals, adaptive recreation, cultural outings, or open-mic karaoke nights, FWA is more than just a program it’s a grassroots movement dedicated to improving quality of life for our participants and making community inclusion the norm.

About FWA

Donation

Signature FWA Experiences

Our events are diverse, uplifting, and fun. Some of our most loved programs include:

Connect & Thrive Meetups: Monthly gatherings focused on friendship and wellness
Adaptive Recreation Days: Sports, outdoor activities, and inclusive fitness opportunities
Cultural & Creative Outings: From museums to theater shows and art workshops
Special Celebrations: Karaoke nights, holiday events, and more

Big Ideas,
Real Impact.

2025 Annual Report

Breaking Barriers. Building Belonging.

A Letter from the Founder

2025 marked an exciting year of growth and connection with Friends with Abilities. Our mission is simple but powerful: to reduce isolation and create meaningful opportunities for adults with physical disabilities to connect, participate, and thrive in their communities.

Through our Connect & Thrive program, participants experienced community outings, shared laughter, new friendships, and inclusive environments where everyone belongs. Each event reinforced our belief that when barriers are removed, people with disabilities can fully engage in community life.

We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, partners, and supporters who helped make these experiences possible. Together we are building a community where ability, dignity, and belonging are celebrated.

— Paul Mayfield
Founder, Friends with Abilities

2025 Program Highlight

Connect & Thrive

Connect & Thrive brings adults with physical disabilities together through accessible outings, shared experiences, and peer support.

Increased social connection
Improved emotional well-being
Greater confidence engaging in community activities
Stronger peer relationships

Impact in 2025

Participants Served
40+ adults with physical disabilities

Community Experiences
Bowling Night • Boat Cruise • Movie Night • Baseball Games • Holiday Gatherings • Community Outings

Volunteer Engagement
15 volunteers paired with participants for accessibility support

Community Connections
Partnerships with local organizations, parks, and community spaces

Why Our Work Matters

Many adults with physical disabilities experience social isolation and limited access to community activities.

Connection is not just social — it improves mental health, confidence, and overall well-being.

Thanks to volunteers and in-kind donations, Friends with Abilities was able to maximize resources and deliver meaningful experiences to participants.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Additional community outings
Outdoor wellness activities
Greater volunteer engagement
New partnerships and funding opportunities

Our goal is to continue building a community where everyone has the opportunity to connect and thrive.

Get Involved

Join us in building a more inclusive community.

📞 Contact: Paul Mayfield
📱 248-460-6070
🌐 Friends with Abilities

Together we are breaking barriers and building belonging.

Meet Paul D. Mayfield, CEO

Paul Mayfield – Educator, Advocate, and Founder of Friends with Abilities

With a lifelong passion for education and social impact, Paul Mayfeild has spent over two decades empowering youth and inspiring change. A certified educator in the state of Michigan with a specialization in K-5 all subjects and 6-8 History and Geography, Paul dedicated more than 20 years to teaching middle school students—creating inclusive, dynamic learning environments that helped shape the minds and values of future leaders.

Paul holds a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Michigan State University. He also earned credits toward a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, including international study at the Anita Antipolis University Overseas Study Program in Valbonne, France.

After losing his vision, Paul was faced with the difficult decision to leave the classroom. Rather than stepping away from his calling, he transformed his personal journey into purpose—founding Friends with Abilities, a nonprofit organization that empowers people with physical disabilities to thrive in every aspect of life. Through advocacy, community engagement, and accessible programming, Friends with Abilities is building a more inclusive world—one where everyone belongs.

Today, Paul is a powerful voice for inclusive education and disability rights. His story is one of resilience, reinvention, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others.

:CONTACT

Paul D. Mayfield, CEO

📞 248-460-6070

📧 PM@FWADA.org

🌐 www.FWADA.org

Join the mission today at www.FWADA.org

#FriendsWithAbilities #DisabilityInclusion #AccessibleJoy #FWA

Meet the Team