Kirsten's Fundraiser for Mattingly Edge

Mattingly Edge has played such an important role in helping me grow both personally and professionally and has opened the door to so many amazing opportunities. One of these opportunities was shadowing Misty Enright, a local photographer at her studio. This valuable experience allowed me to take a behind the scenes look and learn from someone in the industry. I was also given the opportunity to photograph Dan Trabue’s son’s wedding and Guillermo Sollano’s daughter’s wedding, giving me real-world wedding photography experience and the confidence to continue pursuing photography. Mattingly Edge has also helped me get internships with QK4 and KKP Boudoir, where I was able to build my skills, learn more about the creative industry, and even photograph the KKP Boudoir pool party. Attending the pool party also allowed me to meet new people and make connections with both peers and entrepreneurs. Mattingly Edge also connected me to my job working with Maria at Stroll. This experience strengthened my communication, organization, and photography skills. 

Mattingly Edge impact goes far beyond the professional opportunities. The support and training that Mattingly Edge provides has increased my confidence in myself, my ability to advocate for myself, and my adaptability to new situations. I have stepped outside of my comfort zone, met people I may have never crossed paths with otherwise, and learned how to build meaningful relationships and connections. Before these opportunities, I sometimes doubted myself or wondered if certain things were possible for me. Now, I have a much stronger belief in myself and know that I am capable of more than I sometimes give myself credit for. Each opportunity has taught me something new about myself and has helped me discover strengths I didn't know I had.

I am incredibly grateful to Mattingly Edge because they have helped me see myself for what I am capable of rather than focusing on what I may have to overcome. They have encouraged me to dream bigger, take chances, and continue pursuing the things I love. I am not the same person I was when I first became involved with Mattingly Edge. I am more confident, outgoing, independent, and willing to take on new challenges.

Mattingly Edge is proud to be the only disability support organization in Kentucky that offers exclusively customized, one-to-one support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Unlike traditional programs that group or segregate people, Mattingly Edge believes every person deserves the dignity of choice and the opportunity to thrive in ordinary places—at work, at home, and in the community.

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