Expansion: Redefining Ability (Discussion Panel, Vendors, & Performers)

Discover the power of story, advocacy, and community at Expansion: Redefining Ability—a transformative event celebrating the voices, talents, and lived experiences of disabled individuals. Through powerful panel conversations, dynamic performances, and inclusive offerings from local vendors and creators, we’ll challenge stereotypes and celebrate disabled joy, resilience, and connection. Come expand your heart, your mind, and your understanding—because together, we are redefining what’s possible.

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What is Expansion?

Expansion is a community outreach and advocacy series by Greenhouse Gives that creates space for real stories, honest dialogue, and deep connection. Each event features a diverse panel of advocates and leaders who share lived experiences to foster awareness, compassion, and cultural understanding. Expansion events aim to uplift underrepresented voices, challenge systemic barriers, and build a more inclusive world through conversation, connection, and community learning.

What to Expect:

• Inspiring Panel Discussions: Hear from Alina Echemendia, Ayleen Villa, Carolyn Weiland, and Don Price as they speak honestly about life, stigma, advocacy, and identity as people with disabilities. 
• Q&A Session: Engage with our panelists by asking tough, unspoken questions in a safe, respectful environment. Gain deeper understanding through real answers directly from the source.
• Vendors, Performers & Activities: Experience the creativity and talent of disabled artists, performers, and allies through live entertainment, inclusive goods, powerful artwork, and interactive activities that inspire connection and joy.
• Meaningful Connections: Connect with others and celebrate the power of coming together across ability to co-create a more compassionate, accessible future.

Live Talk Show Format

This isn’t just a panel—it’s a live, heartfelt conversation that blends vulnerability, humor, and healing. Our speakers will share their truths—the challenges, joys, and wisdom that come with disability—and you’ll be invited to ask questions, unpack assumptions, and engage in real dialogue.

Beyond the panel, you’ll experience creative performances, inclusive activities, and vendors who embody the brilliance and resilience of the disability community. 

This is your chance to be part of something bigger—to break down barriers, expand your worldview, and help foster unity and understanding in our diverse world. Together, we can challenge ableism, honor disabled brilliance, and build a world where all bodies and minds are valued.

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Event Details & Pricing

Date: Saturday, August 16th, 2025

Time: 1:00 – 5:00 PM

Location: Ability360 – 5025 E Washington St. #200, Phoenix, AZ 85034

Tickets: Sliding Scale Admission to keep the event accessible to all while supporting our costs

• Suggested donation: $10
• Free tickets available (no questions asked)
• Supporter tickets: $20 (includes preferred seating, perks, and helps fund future events!)

​Directions

The Ability360 Center is located at 5025 E. Washington St. in Phoenix, AZ. The center is on the south side of Washington between 48th St. and 51st St.

Click HERE to be redirected to our website where you can scroll down to the Directions and Parking section to find a more detailed PDF with directions.

Free Parking

Parking at the Ability360 Center is available in the four-tier parking structure located to the southeast of the main building.

From Washington St., make a right turn just past the main building and follow the private drive to the parking structure. Make a left turn into the structure while bearing in mind that maximum vehicle clearance is 10 feet. Parking within the structure is free of charge to employees and visitors alike. An ample number of accessible parking spots, as well as elevator and stair access, are located on each level.

Accessibility

The venue is accessible, and we are committed to ensuring that all attendees have a comfortable and inclusive experience. If you require any additional accommodations, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team members will be available on-site to assist and provide support as needed.

​​​Reserve Your Spot Today and be part of something meaningful as we come together to honor disability identity, advocacy, and community. We can’t wait to see you at Expansion: Redefining Ability at Ability360 in Phoenix! 🌟🌟

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👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Bring Friends, Family and an Open Mind! ♿️

Whether you identify as disabled or not, you’re invited to listen, learn, connect, and contribute to a more inclusive world.

Let’s shift narratives, challenge ableism, and build a future where all bodies and minds are valued. 🌱✨

More About Greenhouse Gives:

Greenhouse Gives 501(c)(3) strives to provide safe spaces for self-expression, connection and unity. Throughout this event, Greenhouse Gives will be promoting their three pillars of awareness, compassion and interconnectedness. To learn more about Greenhouse Gives click HERE.

✨ Our Mission: Greenhouse Gives provides compassionate action and community outreach to build awareness of our interconnectedness and foster personal and collective growth.

🌐 Learn more about Greenhouse Gives:

Visit www.greenhousegives.org

Follow us on Instagram/Facebook: @greenhousegives

​About this Event

​Be part of something powerful at Expansion: Redefining Ability, a community event uplifting the voices, wisdom, and experiences of people with disabilities. Join us for an engaging panel discussion, talented disabled performers, local vendors, and inclusive activities that challenge stereotypes and celebrate disabled joy, resilience, and community. Expand your heart, your mind, and your understanding—see you there!

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