The Freedom Center

The Freedom Center The Freedom Center empowers people with disabilities to live independently, achieve their goals, and thrive in a barrier-free community.

The Freedom Center provides the five core services including, but not limited to:

•Individual and systems advocacy

•Information and referral

•Peer counseling

•Independent living skills training to people with disabilities of all ages and disabilities

•Transition Services

The Freedom Center provides support and services to people with disabilities in Frederick and Carroll Counties. Independen

t living services and supports include, but are not limited to, equal access, removal of physical and attitudinal barriers, the availability of affordable and accessible housing, availability of accessible transportation, availability of personal assistance services, and equal opportunities for employment. In addition, education and training that is necessary for living in a community and participating in community activities are offered as IL services. Services are designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities. Community awareness programs are available to enhance the understanding and integration of people with disabilities into the mainstream of life. Most importantly, this center includes other services that may be necessary to improve the ability of an individual with a significant disability to function, continue functioning, or move toward functioning independently in the his/her own home, in the family or community.

If you’re caring for a loved one, this is a great way to gain practical skills, support, and connection. Be sure to rese...
08/04/2025

If you’re caring for a loved one, this is a great way to gain practical skills, support, and connection. Be sure to reserve your spot, and thanks to Frederick County Division of Aging & Independence for offering this valuable resource!

💙 Calling All Family Caregivers! 💙
Need support in caring for a loved one? We’ve got you covered.

Join Care Academy — a free, hands-on class designed to help you care with confidence.
🔹 Learn essential caregiving skills
🔹 Get expert safety tips
🔹 Enjoy a FREE lunch and connect with others

📞 Reserve your spot today: 301-600-1234 or CaregiverSupport@FrederickCountyMD.gov
🚨 Space is limited — don’t miss out!
👇 Details below!

Funding Now Available for Assistive Technology!Exciting news! The Freedom Center is offering funding assistance for assi...
08/02/2025

Funding Now Available for Assistive Technology!

Exciting news! The Freedom Center is offering funding assistance for assistive technology to help you maintain independence!

Need home or vehicle modifications, stair lifts, or hearing aids? We can help! Contact Pauletta Sheppard at psheppard@thefreedomcenter-md.org or call 301-447-0286.

More than a mission, this is the real impact of Frederick County nonprofits.The Frederick Nonprofit Alliance, a committe...
08/01/2025

More than a mission, this is the real impact of Frederick County nonprofits.

The Frederick Nonprofit Alliance, a committee of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce, conducted a survey on the real impact of Frederick County nonprofits. The analysis by Data Driven Frederick revealed a total economic impact of $1.03 billion! These organizations provide a critical safety net for Frederick County; offering food, housing, healthcare, education, and more. Nonprofits not only meet urgent needs, they create jobs, mobilize volunteers, and strengthen the overall well-being of our community. Visit https://buff.ly/hdMHA2q to learn more!

IMAGE: Graphic from Frederick Nonprofit Alliance reads: The Real Impact of Frederick Nonprofits, More Than a Mission. Nonprofits create $1.03B in total economic impact. Frederick Nonprofit Alliance logo and web link https://buff.ly/hdMHA2q.

🚨 Housing Lottery Registration for Patuxent Commons opens TOMORROW — Friday, August 1 at 9:00 AM!Patuxent Commons, locat...
07/31/2025

🚨 Housing Lottery Registration for Patuxent Commons opens TOMORROW — Friday, August 1 at 9:00 AM!

Patuxent Commons, located in Columbia, MD, is a new community focused on inclusion, affordability, and independent living. To ensure a fair process, all units will be leased through a Housing Lottery.

🗓️ Registration runs August 1–10

Learn more below or visit: www.PatuxentCommons.com

🏡 Housing Lottery Registration for Patuxent Commons Opens Friday, August 1! 🏡

Patuxent Commons will begin initial leasing through a Housing Lottery to ensure an equitable process for all unit types.

🗓 Key Dates:
🔹 Lottery Registration: Aug 1 (9 AM) – Aug 10 (midnight)
🔹 Lottery Draw: On/around Aug 15
🔹 Leasing Appointments: Scheduled in lottery order

Completing registration gives you a lottery number, but does not guarantee housing. Eligibility requirements apply for some units.

✅ How to Register:
1️⃣ Head of Household visits www.PatuxentCommons.com between Aug 1–10
2️⃣ Complete basic demographic info
3️⃣ Receive a confirmation email with your lottery number

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this inclusive, vibrant community!

🌳 SAVE THE DATE for our Annual Picnic in the Park! Join The Freedom Center for an afternoon of fun, food, and community ...
07/31/2025

🌳 SAVE THE DATE for our Annual Picnic in the Park!

Join The Freedom Center for an afternoon of fun, food, and community connection!

Date: Friday, September 19, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Monocacy Village Park, 401 Delaware Road, Frederick, MD 21701

Bring your friends and family—enjoy games, great company, and a beautiful day outdoors!

RSVP by Wednesday, September 17 by emailing advocate@thefreedomcenter-md.org or calling 301-846-7811.

A groundbreaking innovation from Morgan State University could soon enhance independence for travelers with disabilities...
07/31/2025

A groundbreaking innovation from Morgan State University could soon enhance independence for travelers with disabilities.

This self-driving wheelchair uses smart technology to help users navigate complex spaces like airports safely and confidently. Innovations like these don’t just improve access - they help build a more inclusive, forward-thinking world for everyone.

Read more in The Baltimore Banner: https://buff.ly/xOEOQMO

LINK PREVIEW IMAGE: A man using a self-driving wheelchair navigates through an airport security line at BWI Marshall Airport.

A pilot program with Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport is helping researchers at Morgan State University bring new technology to life in autonomous wheelchairs.

Explore the latest in assistive technology and how to finance it!Join the Maryland Technology Assistance Program for Ign...
07/30/2025

Explore the latest in assistive technology and how to finance it!

Join the Maryland Technology Assistance Program for Igniting Independence with AT & AT Financing - a free webinar on Wednesday, August 6, from 1–2 PM.

Learn about new tech for hearing, vision, and mobility, plus funding options to help you access what you need.

🔗 Register here: https://buff.ly/3rsIDAb

IMAGE: Graphic for the Maryland Department of Disabilities Assistive Technology Program webinar titled “Igniting Independence with AT & AT Financing.” The webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 1–2 p.m. EST. It will cover new hearing and vision technologies and assistive tech loan options. Illustration shows a person at a desk participating in a video call.

Today, we recognize the anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid — two programs that have played a vital role in the lives o...
07/30/2025

Today, we recognize the anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid — two programs that have played a vital role in the lives of people with disabilities since 1965. The Freedom Center joins the Maryland Insurance Administration and the nation in celebrating this milestone and reaffirming the importance of accessible, affordable health care for all.

On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law legislation that established the Medicare and Medicaid programs. If you have questions about health insurance or Medicare Supplements, visit our website: https://insurance.maryland.gov/Consumer/Pages/HealthCoverage.aspx

NEW TIME! Free Space Wednesdays – Now at 1 PMJoin us on Wednesday, August 6 at our NEW time of 1PM for the next session ...
07/29/2025

NEW TIME! Free Space Wednesdays – Now at 1 PM

Join us on Wednesday, August 6 at our NEW time of 1PM for the next session of Free Space Wednesdays, a free virtual support group for people with disabilities.

This monthly group combines peer support and guided meditation to help reduce stress, build emotional resilience, and foster a sense of community.

WHEN: Every first Wednesday (Next session is Wednesday, August 6)
TIME: 1:00 – 2:00 PM
WHERE: Zoom
REGISTER: https://buff.ly/mXY44cU

Questions or need accommodations? Contact Darren at 301-447-0279 or dbraun@thefreedomcenter-md.org.

IMAGE: Flyer for "Free Space Wednesdays," a monthly virtual disability support group hosted by The Freedom Center. The group meets the first Wednesday of each month from 1:00 to 2:00 PM via Zoom. The flyer features an image of a woman using a wheelchair at a desk and a photo of stacked stones symbolizing calm. Text explains that the group is a safe, inclusive space for individuals with disabilities and their allies to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Includes a QR code to register.

The Freedom Center will be participating in the Frederick Drum Circle every Tuesday evening in August! This unfacilitate...
07/28/2025

The Freedom Center will be participating in the Frederick Drum Circle every Tuesday evening in August! This unfacilitated, open circle welcomes all—no drumming experience needed. Extra drums are available and assistance is available upon request.

DATES: August 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2025
TIME: 6:00 pm
COST: Free
LOCATION: Meet at 500 Fleming Ave, Frederick, MD 21701

Questions? Contact Darren Braun at dbraun@thefreedomcenter-md.org or call 301-447-0279.

IMAGE: Flyer inviting people to join The Freedom Center at the Frederick Drum Circle in August with photo of person beating a bongo.

Scammers are getting smarter — but so can you.Join the free Anti-Scam Webinar Series from University of Maryland Extensi...
07/25/2025

Scammers are getting smarter — but so can you.

Join the free Anti-Scam Webinar Series from University of Maryland Extension’s Marylanders Online program and learn how to recognize and avoid today’s most common scams — including AI-generated fraud.

Virtual sessions begin August 5
4:30–6:00 PM
Offered in English and Spanish

These webinars are a great resource for individuals, caregivers, and service providers.

Register now: https://buff.ly/RuOPnhw

Address

1890 North Market Street, Suite 203
Frederick, MD
21701

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