Awareness and Sensitivity presentations for your school

Break Through has a wide range of school programs and presentations

They focus on disability sensitivity, diversity, and motivation. We have done speaking, training, and instructor in-service training at all levels of education. Since Ben has had a much broader range of education than most of us can experience, he has some interesting insights for both students and instructors.

When "Ben Presents Ben" He…

Tells it like it is (and was) from the perspective of a real kid.
Helps build self-esteem, self-confidence, and hope.
Shows how important it is to "Never Give Up!"
Helps those who have "been there" to see how they can "get out of their boxes" and helps those who haven't "been there" to learn how to relate more helpfully to those who have.
Increasingly students with disabilities and those without are walking the same hallways, sitting in the same classes, and participating in the same activities.

Fear of the unknown or unfamiliar makes it difficult for a student without a disability to relate to one with a disability;

"What is life like for her?"
" Should I feel sorry for him?"
" What could I do to help?"
" Should I ignore her so as not to embarrass her?"

And sometimes embarrassment makes it difficult for a student with a disability to escape the protective "box" they've built around themselves to join effectively with their fellow students.

Ben's presentation helps students to learn to respond constructively to such challenges and to come away with a more positive attitude toward each other. He also helps those who have been struggling with their disability to feel more effective and hopeful. In a creative, sometimes humorous, highly anecdotal presentation, Ben describes what life is like for a student growing up with cerebral palsy. He discusses where he found his strength and hope, gives tips on how to relate effectively to a person with a disability, and teaches us all that we must "Never Give Up!"

Educational & Inspirational

“ Hearing Ben Anderson speak was truly inspirational:...

“Eloquent--he had such a positive and high-spirited attitude”....

“I cannot imagine anyone who hears Ben’s story to not leave with a smile and a new sense of determination toward life...I know I did” These are but a few of the overwhelming positive reflections shared by students after attending a one hour talk by Ben. He truly captivated our hearts and minds with his message.

John Achter, PH.D., Director Counseling Center, University of Wisconsin Stout