#GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world. We hope you will embrace the global giving movement and support GSIL!
GSIL provides people with the tools for living life independently, so they can live their lives to the fullest. Recently, GSIL was featured on WMUR’s Very Local in a series called “Unseen Heroes” that gives us the opportunity to present the inspiring stories of the real-life heroes who form our community—both the compassionate GSIL staff who go above and beyond, and the resilient individuals we are honored to serve. These stories not only illustrate the wide range of services GSIL provides to Granite Staters, but also emphasize the strength, determination, and positive impact that are central to GSIL’s mission.
Watch the full “Unseen Heroes” video or watch a short segment on any of the five key areas of GSIL’s services below.
Home Care Connections: After a life-changing diving accident, Jenny Crowell, now living with quadriplegia, continues to live independently at home. With the support of GSIL’s home services, Sandy Aucoin assists as Jenny’s “arms and legs,” making independence possible.
Building Community: GSIL fosters social engagement for people of all abilities by organizing events, offering peer support and mentoring, and providing essential transportation services to reduce isolation.
Educating with IMPACCT: IMPACCT Academy is dedicated to guiding students with disabilities towards a bright future by offering a unique, supportive curriculum that helps them gain confidence and prepare for life after high school.
Empowering Employment: Owen Bastille’s journey toward meaningful employment showcases GSIL’s commitment to helping individuals find work that aligns with their interests, through dedicated support from our employment coordinators.
Advocacy for All: GSIL’s Ryan Donnelly leads a passionate effort to advocate for legislative changes that make New Hampshire more accessible and inclusive for everyone, demonstrating the power of civic engagement.
After a recent spinal cord injury resulted in paraplegia, Kevin’s life soon changed. The staff at GSIL worked closely with him through his rehabilitation, offering resources, peer support and mentoring as well as assisting him in networking with his community to set goals. Kevin obtained 2 accessible vehicles, had his own apartment and sat on several different disability related committees. He participated in barrier.
free recreation and peer support groups. With some guidance from GSIL staff, Kevin obtained a hand cycle through Challenge Athletes Foundation. In the fall of 2019, he did the research to find an accessible subsidized apartment. He spoke with his employer about a transfer in jobs to the franchise in the city to which he was moving. He now had a job waiting for him as well!