Disability Educator Jordyn Zimmerman Inspired Search360 Through Her Powerful Keynote 

On Friday, July 24, disability advocate and educator Jordyn Zimmerman visited our Mount Prospect site to deliver an inspiring keynote to the Search360 team, highlighting the importance of listening, challenging the status quo and creating opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to share their voices and shape their own futures. 

Throughout her presentation, Jordyn shared her personal journey growing up with autism and navigating a school system that did not always provide the support she needed. Her story highlighted an important reminder: one size does not fit all when it comes to supporting people with disabilities. 

For years, Jordyn experienced barriers as others made assumptions about what she could or could not do. It was not until she began using a communication device that she was able to express her thoughts, share her needs and show others the person she had always been. Having access to the right tools and supports gave Jordyn the opportunity to advocate for herself and ensure her voice was heard. 

Today, Jordyn uses her lived experience to advocate for meaningful change in the I/DD sector through presentations, consulting and working alongside legislators to create more inclusive environments where people with disabilities are empowered to communicate, learn and lead. 

Following her keynote, Search360 staff participated in an interactive exercise focused on identifying opportunities to strengthen support for our Search community. Staff members gathered in small groups to discuss ideas, challenges and priorities, writing their thoughts on sticky notes. Each group shared their ideas with the larger team, and staff members then placed stickers next to the priorities they felt would have the greatest impact on the lives of the people we support. 

The activity created space for collaboration and reflection, allowing staff to think critically about how we can continue improving services, expanding opportunities and ensuring the voices of people with I/DD remain at the center of our work. 

“The time spent with Jordyn positively impacted our thoughts and discussion on creating opportunities for people with I/DD to live, learn and grow,” said Search360 CEO Cory Gumm. “Jordyn’s lived experience, partnered with the advocacy work she does in the I/DD sector, led to a thoughtful and engaging discussion and action steps for the future of services and supports at Search360.” 

Jordyn’s visit served as a powerful reminder that every person has a story to tell, and everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard. By listening to self-advocates and learning from lived experiences, Search360 continues to strengthen its commitment to building a future where people with I/DD have the support, opportunities and tools they need to thrive.