CAU Members Making an Impact

Three stories of resilience and achievement are unfolding across Community Access Unlimited's programs in July 2026. From the bowling alley in Linden to the State House in Trenton, CAU members are pursuing their passions, reaching personal milestones, and advocating for the support systems that enable them to thrive.

At the Special Olympics in July, Laurie, Brian, and Sandra, members of CAU's Cranford program, represented their community with pride. Brian crossed the finish line first, earning a gold medal. Laurie brought home a bronze medal. For more than nine years, these three have been part of CAU's SUPER BOWLERS league, a group that practices every Saturday morning at Linden Lanes. The bowling alley has become a familiar second home for the group, and this year's season was another success built on friendship, competition, and shared joy.

"Bowling is what keeps them moving and connected," said a CAU program coordinator. "These friendships are as important as the medals."

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Megan, a member of CAU's programs, is also sharing her story. She is an author and illustrator who recently published a book titled "Loved Roots" that shares her experiences with mental health and encourages others facing similar challenges. With support from CAU's Support Coordination team and A Plus Tutoring, Megan transformed her personal journey into both words and artwork, creating a resource for others.

Nosa Ekhator, Megan's Support Coordinator, described her as "a resilient author and video creator using her voice to heal hearts, uplift minds, and turn pain into purpose."

In Trenton, meanwhile, CAU members who are part of the HelpingHands group recently traveled to the State House to advocate for a cause affecting thousands of people with disabilities across New Jersey. The group joined staff members and advocates from community-based intellectual and developmental disability services programs statewide to push for a 3% cost of living adjustment. Wearing bright blue shirts emblazoned with the message "Care Needs COLA," the group attended a Senate committee hearing, making their voices heard in the legislative process.

After the hearing, the group toured the State House and learned how bills are shaped and voted on, gaining firsthand understanding of how advocacy works. The 3% cost of living adjustment they were advocating for directly affects the quality of care and support available to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across New Jersey.

These stories, spanning from the bowling lanes to the legislative chamber, reflect CAU's core mission: supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full lives in their communities. Whether through recreational programs that build friendships, creative outlets that heal and inspire, or organized advocacy for systemic support, CAU members are demonstrating resilience, talent, and determination.

For more information about Community Access Unlimited programs in Cranford, Elizabeth, and across Union County, visit CAU's website or contact the organization directly. Learn more about Union County nonprofits and community programs on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What is Community Access Unlimited and what programs does it offer?
A: Community Access Unlimited (CAU) is a nonprofit organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Union County. CAU programs include recreation and wellness activities, employment support, residential services, and advocacy. Members participate in sports leagues, arts programs, mentoring, and statewide advocacy for disability services.

Q: What are the SUPER BOWLERS and how long have they been meeting?
A: The SUPER BOWLERS is a CAU recreational bowling league that meets every Saturday morning at Linden Lanes in Linden. Members have been participating together for more than nine years, building friendships and competing in a supportive environment.

Q: Who won medals at the Special Olympics in July 2026?
A: Brian and Laurie, members of CAU's Cranford program, represented the community at the Special Olympics in July 2026. Brian earned a gold medal and Laurie earned a bronze medal. They participated alongside Sandra, another member of the Cranford program.

Q: What book did Megan publish and what is it about?
A: Megan, an author and illustrator who works with CAU, published a book titled "Loved Roots" that shares her personal experiences with mental health and encourages others facing similar challenges. The book combines her writing and artwork. She received support from CAU's Support Coordination team and A Plus Tutoring.

Q: What did CAU members advocate for at the State House in Trenton?
A: CAU members who are part of the HelpingHands group traveled to the State House to advocate for a 3% cost of living adjustment for community based intellectual and developmental disability services. They attended a Senate committee hearing and toured the legislature to learn how the advocacy process works.

Q: How can I learn more about CAU programs in Union County?
A: Visit Community Access Unlimited's website or contact CAU directly for information about programs in Cranford, Elizabeth, and other Union County municipalities. CAU offers recreational, employment, residential, and advocacy programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.