Insights

U.S. Surgeon General Advisory

Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk for premature death.

In his 2023 advisory, former Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy called attention to the “epidemic of loneliness.” He emphasized the importance of fostering community engagement and supporting efforts to build social connections. This issue is especially significant to disabled members of our community, who often face greater barriers to forming lasting connections with peers and the broader community. Through our programming which prioritizes creating a sense of belonging and inclusion, we are committed to playing our part in combatting this epidemic.

Pillar has been focused on creating engaging opportunities that connect our clients with each other and their greater community.

“Given the significant health consequences of loneliness and isolation, we must prioritize building social connection the same way we have prioritized other critical public health issues such as tobacco, obesity, and substance use disorders.”

- U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy.

Spalding University

Occupational Therapists are essential to the thriving lives of our clients.

Since 2023, the Spalding University Occupational Therapy (OT) program has partnered with Pillar to help provide clients with tools to be successful.

Spalding University’s OT students have the opportunity to join Pillar for a three-month educational program at Pillar’s engagement center.

The first student began the program with a focus on nutrition. The student was able to assess each client and identify assistance needed by focusing on individual client needs while steering them toward success.

With support from Pillar staff, the student created a mock grocery store where clients grocery shopped, assessed food nutrition, and practiced making cost-effective choices.

Spalding University’s OT students play a critical role in Pillar’s mission of providing people with disabilities with opportunity and choice. From this one project, Pillar’s clients left with the tools needed to make good choices at the grocery store.