EchoingU was created in response to the lack of options for young adults with disabilities—there was a huge need for a place to build additional skills and to grow personally and professionally. EchoingU differs from other programs because we are committed to the local community. Our staff creates opportunities for students to be actively engaged and participate in community through educational experiences and investigation of student’s interests. Some of these opportunities include touring local businesses, parks, museums, and libraries, speaking with business professionals, and volunteering with other organizations and nonprofits. Since the EchoingU program first began in Dayton in 2012, EchoingU students across Ohio have logged over 8,700 volunteer hours and that number will continue to grow as the volunteer opportunities expand into the Northern Ohio region.