I’ve been disabled for 15 years, so for as long as I can remember, and I’ve also lived in Racine County my entire life.

There’s a lot of support in Racine, for those who are disabled, but sometimes locking down the support in one spot can be difficult. I wanted to give insight to five of my favorite local businesses in Racine that support people with disabilities.

These businesses may not always be thought of as a support for those with disabilities, but I have found them to be an outlet for myself.

The Inclusive Bean

How could I start this list without mentioning The Inclusive Bean, 1930 Albert St.?

This local spot is a welcoming space for those with disabilities as their whole mission as a coffee shop is to employ those with disabilities. As a disabled person, I always feel like I can be myself in this space. If I have a medical emergency, I won’t feel judged, if it happens while I am here.

It is valuable knowing that people like myself can exist without the worry, fear, and or judgement when in a public space.

Mandala Yoga

Mandala Yoga, 3205 Washington Ave., serves as a yoga and pilates studio in West Racine.

For myself, this form of exercise has been approachable. As someone who has physical disabilities that change, I am able to approach this space knowing what I do on my own yoga mat only matters to me. The mindset at Mandala is inclusive. Some days, like everyone, I am capable of certain things physically, and other times, it changes. That’s life though, that is everyone’s experience, not just disabled people. They offer an array of classes, each day of the week.

What I didn’t know I needed in life was a place where I can show up, without pressure, and to never be judged for my abilities. This studio has been a refuge.

The biggest takeaway being that I found a place that compliments my mental health. The practice of yoga is one that most people have to come to on their own. For myself, I am grateful that this local gem helps to work on my nervous system and mental health.

Rosewood Equestrian Center

I bet you weren’t expecting me to list a horse riding school? The reason I choose to include this business is because oftentimes as a disabled person, your life becomes your body. Your life becomes your appointments, it becomes your illness and the trauma that has happened to you.

While Rosewood Equestrian Center isn’t a designated therapeutic riding barn, it doesn’t take a label to know that time spent with animals, specifically horses, is beneficial physically and mentally.

Stefanie McGill has been exceptional as a teacher and provider. I call her a provider because oftentimes, with her, I find myself learning about my body and how to help myself or the animal in various situations. She’s flexible and meets my needs when it comes to my body and health.

You can find more information about the barn online.

We Rock the Spectrum- Racine County

I am not only disabled, but people in my life outside of myself have disabilities. I’ve gone to We Rock the Spectrum in Racine and found such joy even as an observer. I call myself an observer because I am not the sole participant.

This inclusive gym is located at 5509 Durand Ave. They have an arrangement of play and gym equipment that can meet the needs of children with disabilities. The great thing about this space isn’t if you can physically do all the activities at the gym, but rather knowing, at the gym you are free to just be yourself.

People with disabilities carry a lot of weight, always wondering how an outside environment will impact a person. I’ve found that at this business, you don’t have to worry.

Time to Thrive Wellness

Time to Thrive Wellness is located in Western Racine County, but a business that I frequent at least once a month. They’ve been vital in aiding support. I can manage my chronic conditions in a better way because I have access to treatments that aren’t always readily available.

Kristina Mingus is a board-certified nurse practitioner who takes your health into her own hands and provides exceptional care that in the traditional healthcare sector can be outside of the box.

With her help, I’ve been in continual treatment for multiple nutritional deficiencies. She’s been able to give me access to off label treatments for some of my conditions, and help get me some quality of life.

What I couldn’t get in the doctors office, I had luck with Kristina. She gave me a sense of hope.

What are other businesses in Racine County that stand out to you as a person with a disability?