Empower Abilities. Change Lives.
Our mission is to empower adults living with physical disabilities by providing them with the necessary support, resources, and opportunities to live fulfilling and independent lives.
We strive to promote accessibility, inclusion, and equality in all aspects of society, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities for education, employment, recreation, and social participation as everyone else. Through advocacy, education, and direct services, we work tirelessly to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build a more inclusive and accessible world for people of all abilities.
A little about me.
My name is Paul Mayfield, and I want to share my story with you. I was born with an eye disease called “ Retinitis Pigmentosa”, a condition that gradually limited my vision and created many challenges. But I never let those challenges define me. I persevered through school and earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Michigan State University. I went on to become a dedicated school teacher for many years. Teaching was my passion, and I loved making a difference in the lives of my students.
However, as my vision continued to deteriorate, I was forced to retire from teaching. Though this was one of the hardest moments of my life, I refused to let it stop me. Instead, I turned my focus towards Friend with Abilities, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting people who face loneliness, depression and self-doubt.
In our community , we don’t believe in having a disability-we believe in different abilities.
Everyone has unique strengths, and together we are all better. Friends with Abilities is more than an organization, it is a movement that reminds people they are not alone, and that they are capable of overcoming anything.
Beyond my work, I am a proud parent of two beautiful children who inspire me everyday. I am a family man, and everything I do is to help others, in order to show them that their challenges do not define them, but their perseverance and heart do.
I invite you to join me on this journey, let’s build a world where being differently abled is celebrated, where support is always within reach, and where no one feels alone.
Together we are stronger!
Paul D. Mayfield
Founder/CEO Friends with Abilities
Paul Mayfield Ceo, Friends with Abilities
“We specialize in changing lives. We start with the heart. We build connections through shared events.”
Paul Mayfield Ceo, Friends with Abilities