My Own Downtown - Able Hands

Last Updated 12/16/2021 • Posted in Business Features

It is so important to provide a sense of normalcy and structure to individuals with learning disabilities due to significant changes they have experienced after some sort of trauma. Gordan Max Mickelson and his business partner, Josh Bellamy opened Able Hands in 2006. This local rehabilitation organization helps individuals with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries in Sweetwater County.

“We saw the benefits a community partner agency could bring to our community,” Max explained. “Instead of providing services to adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries in a segregated setting, we saw a path to support our folks in a fully inclusive manner to facilitate their ability to be active and valued members of our community.”

There are several reasons why Max is proud to be connected to Downtown Rock Springs.

“They all boil down to one concept. Community. The time and energy Downtown businesses put back into Downtown, each other, and our larger community is inspiring and gives not only Josh and I a great deal to be proud of but our clients as well,” he expressed. Max went on to say, “Unless you work in Downtown, it is hard to understand how good being there feels. Seeing the Rock Springs High School celebrations, the parades, the families during the Halloween Stroll, to Blues n Brews.” “Our Downtown is the soul of our community and as it fares so fare us all,” he included.

According to Max, the future of our Downtown is boundless.

“The energy and resources put towards its revitalization are key to the diversification and success of our wonderful city,” he pointed out.

He added, “I see downtown continuing to develop and adapt into the essential piece of Rock Springs that it was and will be again.”

No matter what, Max believes Downtown will always be strong.

“Our community is resilient and supportive. Regardless of changing economic factors, we will be strong and succeed because our community will accept nothing less.”