All Abilities Hub founder Katia Mukhammadieva, right, and daughter Nastasia. Katia founded the club two years ago after searching for a social group for Nastasia. Today the group has members ranging from ages 6 to 25. Courtesy photo
Every Wednesday, kids, teens — and even adults with special needs— are invited to come as they are and join the All Abilities Hub. For some, that means sitting next to a new friend and participating in the day’s activity; for others, it looks like watching the group from the sidelines. No one pressures, no one judges. Every person, every age, every ability — everyone — is welcome.
“Sometimes, for the first time, they may just observe,” said founder Katia Mukhammadieva. “They can walk around, they can stim, they can talk and be very vocal, which would usually disrupt a regular class. Then they may join us at the mat, and some kids can just sit. It doesn’t look like they’re participating, but sometimes it’s great progress because two weeks ago they wouldn’t come in and use the space. In our club, families are used to this behavior, and it doesn’t bother anyone.”
The Wylie resident started the nonprofit two years ago after searching for a social group for her profoundly autistic daughter, Nastasia, now 16. Driving to therapies and activities throughout the Metroplex was taking a toll on Mukhammadieva’s health, so she began looking closer to home. When she couldn’t find a good fit for Nastasia, she started the All Abilities Hub. Today, the group has about 15 members, ages 6 to 25, with a range of conditions and abilities.
By Whitney Alswede, Special Contributor
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