ABLE Youth with Amy Saffell

You Matter Nashville

Welcome to another episode of the You Matter Nashville podcast! On this episode, we’re excited to bring you a conversation with Amy Saffell, Executive Director of ABLE Youth.
ABLE Youth is an amazing organization that empowers kids with physical disabilities to gain independence and confidence through adaptive sports. We dive deep into Amy’s personal journey, her passion for making a difference, and how ABLE Youth is changing lives through programs like wheelchair basketball, independence camps, and more.
Join us as we explore how sports and community can come together to create lasting impact and resilience in Middle Tennessee. Remember, every story we share is a celebration of you — because you matter!
Takeaways

• ABLE Youth helps kids with physical disabilities learn independence through adaptive sports
• Sports can be integrated with therapy to make it more engaging and effective for kids with disabilities
• Participating in road races and traveling to compete against other kids with disabilities can be empowering and help build social connections
• Providing specialized sports equipment for kids with disabilities can be expensive, and ABLE Youth relies on donations and grants
• Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting ABLE Youth's programs and activities
• Amy Saffell's personal experiences with spina bifida and adaptive sports inspired her to join ABLE Youth.
• Peer teaching is an important aspect of their programs, as older kids who have mastered certain skills can teach younger kids.
• The organization focuses on changing perceptions of disability and promoting inclusivity.
• Children with disabilities have the power to change the world by showcasing their abilities and living life to the fullest.

ABLE Youth
https://www.ableyouth.org/

You Matter Nashville YouTube Channel
www.youtube.com/@YouMatterNashville
The Hoover Team
www.thehooverteam.com

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1. Introduction to You Matter Nashville and Able Youth (00:00:00)

2. Able Youth's Programs and Mission (00:01:20)

3. Making Sports Fun and Engaging for Kids with Disabilities (00:03:18)

4. Road Races and Travel: Empowering Kids with Disabilities (00:04:14)

5. The Financial Challenges of Providing Specialized Sports Equipment (00:08:01)

6. The Role of Volunteers in Supporting Able Youth (00:17:44)

7. Amy Sefel's Journey: From Spina Bifida to Able Youth (00:18:14)

8. Sports and Recreational Opportunities for Children with Disabilities (00:25:28)

9. The Power of Peer Teaching (00:26:53)

10. What Does ABLE Actually Mean? (00:29:07)

11. The Impact of ABLE Youth Programs on College Aspirations (00:31:28)

12. Changing Perceptions and Building a Supportive Community (00:34:47)

13. Children with Disabilities: Changing the World (00:42:28)