Have you ever looked at the history of the word handicapped?
We no longer use that word, as it is considered disrespectful, and there is a folk etymology that associates it with begging. The word actually comes from a 17th-century betting game where hands were placed into a cap with bets hidden—Hand-in-Cap. The idea was that the person with an advantageous position would be disadvantaged to level the playing field. Interestingly, this concept still applies today in golf: a handicap is used to equalize competition so players of all skill levels can compete more fairly.
The world we live in today was largely designed for people without disabilities, and little by little, we have been working for decades to create a more inclusive world for everyone. The opportunities I may have to succeed and live a happy, fulfilling life can look very different from those available to someone with a disability—such as a person who is autistic, has Down syndrome, or lives with quadriplegia.
If you follow our Facebook page, you may have noticed a video featuring Suzanne Denu, a music therapist at Manchester Community Music School. Beaming with delight, Suzanne took us through every corner of the custom sensory room, showcasing the therapeutic purpose of each installation and piece of equipment.
CMF Kids provided resources for this space to ensure that children with autism and other disabilities have access to music in a way that meets their needs. Inclusive, adaptive design helps level the playing field—making music education accessible, equitable, and transformative for every child. Without you, this remarkable place wouldn’t exist. These talented music-makers would not have a space like this to express their creativity in an environment designed to support their unique needs.
We are thrilled to have partners like Manchester Community Music School and Concord Community Music School, who recognize that creative supports make a world of difference in the lives of these kids. Every cent you give to CMF Kids goes directly toward making a difference in the lives of children and youth with autism and other disabilities throughout the state of New Hampshire.
And our impact continues to broaden—and deepen. As you’ll see in the pages that follow, we’ve just announced an additional $1 million in partnership projects aimed at supporting academic, vocational, and social-emotional outcomes for children with disabilities from the Granite State’s most under-resourced schools. We know we’re evening the odds of success when we hear from partners, teachers, and families. We are humbled by the chorus of Thank yous.
Now that is impact that’s music to our ears!
Ned Olney
President and CEO