Thriving Beyond Silence
Our Mission
To empower and advocate for individuals with silent (invisible and dynamic) disabilities by providing resources, fostering understanding, awareness and ensuring no one suffers in silence, promoting a life of endless possibilities through education, support, and community engagement.
Our Vision
A world where individuals with silent disabilities are empowered to lead a life free from suffering in silence, thriving out loud with endless possibilities.
Founder’s Story
Founded by Ashley Jones, Persons with Silent Disabilities Association (PwSD) was born from a personal journey through years of unexplained illness, chronic pain, and feeling unheard by healthcare providers. Though Ashley appeared healthy, working, parenting, and living a “normal” life, she silently battled autoimmune and rheumatic disease, only diagnosed after years of advocating for herself.
Her experience revealed a deeper issue: systems often overlook symptoms of those whose disabilities are not visible. Discovering there was a universal term invisible disabilities gave language to her struggle and sparked a mission to advocate for others living with unseen conditions. PwSD exists to amplify these voices, validate their experiences, foster understanding, and push for recognition in healthcare, workplaces, and society at large.
Our Team
The PwSD team is a dedicated group of professionals and advocates united by a shared mission: to support and empower individuals with silent disabilities. We bring together diverse expertise in healthcare, education, advocacy, and community engagement to create an environment where every person is seen, every voice heard, and every individual valued.
- Purpose-Driven Work: Every initiative is rooted in advocacy and inclusion.
- Empathy in Action: We honor unseen struggles and respond with kindness.
- Authentic Communication: We listen deeply and speak truth with love.
- Wellness First: Self-care is how we sustain our mission.
Our Programs & Resources
We are busy behind the scenes developing meaningful programs to support, educate, and connect individuals with silent disabilities. These offerings are designed to meet real-life needs, foster community, and empower people to thrive out loud.
Already underway
Children’s Engagement
Powered by our signature program, Coloring the Invisible™, PwSD provides creative, hands-on activities that help children explore emotions, empathy, and invisible experiences.
Already underway
Resource Navigation
Personalized 1:1 support helping families navigate insurance, complex paperwork, appointment assistance, and practical community resources.
Already underway
Self-Advocacy & Wellness
Workshops that empower individuals to navigate healthcare, build resilience, and practice holistic self-care.
Already underway
Support Groups & Community Events
Safe spaces for connection, shared experiences, and encouragement.
Coming soon
Workplace & Employee Training
Targeted training for employers and staff on invisible disabilities, confidentiality standards, and inclusive, flexible work cultures.
Coming soon
Companion Care
Friendly emotional support and companionship to assist with daily tasks and reduce isolation.
Coming soon
Educational Guides
Practical tools designed to raise awareness and equip supporters to be better allies.
Coming soon
Research Development & Policy Improvement
Driving systemic change through data-driven advocacy for economic justice, sensory accessibility, and lived experience.
… to name a few. Stay connected! There is so much more on the way, and we can’t wait to share it with you.