Integrate for Good, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, celebrated the grand opening of its new community hub on Sept. 18, reports Rachel Ravina for The Reporter.

The space in Worcester Township offers a welcoming environment designed to bring people together. Founder and Executive Director Bev Weinberg emphasized the organization’s mission to combat loneliness. “Loneliness is an epidemic, but there is good news. It is 100 percent preventative, and Integrate for Good is the antidote,” she said.

Weinberg referenced a 2023 report by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy that highlighted the public health crisis of loneliness affecting half of U.S. adults. With the new space, Integrate for Good aims to serve even more people, providing a wide range of programs including empowerment labs, leadership incubators, and inclusive volunteering opportunities.

Weinberg is an occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience. She launched the nonprofit in 2019 after identifying a gap in services for individuals with disabilities after graduation. The organization partners with local colleges, libraries, and businesses to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to learn skills, connect, and prepare for employment or college.

The new community hub is not just for individuals with disabilities but for everyone, as Weinberg stressed the importance of inclusivity. “Loneliness is not a special need,” she said, encouraging people of all abilities to participate.

Fundraising efforts are ongoing, with a goal of raising $30,000 in sponsorships. A major fundraising event is planned for Oct. 24 at RiverCrest Golf Club & Preserve in Phoenixville, featuring keynote speaker Dani Bowman from Netflix’s “Love on the Spectrum.”

Read more about the new Integrate for Good center at The Reporter.