Faces of ABLE: Caleb

The future is bright for the disability community – there are people with different abilities opening businesses, having successful modeling careers, and becoming triathletes – like Caleb Prewitt. At just 14 years old, Caleb was recently selected to represent Team Florida in the triathlon at next year’s US Special Olympics in Orlando.

While his current schedule is filled with training – running, biking, and swimming; Karen Prewitt recalls the busy days they faced when Caleb was younger. Like many parents caring for a young child with a disability, the Prewitt’s juggled different therapies and appointments. Planning for the future was rarely top of mind.

Caleb’s parents, Karen and David, were lucky to be involved with the Jacksonville Down Syndrome community and had the chance to advocate for the passage of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act with the help of former U.S. Representative Crenshaw. “We traveled up to Washington, D.C., we met some friends up there and we all talked with our legislators about the importance of saving for the future, especially for our population. And as a result, ABLE accounts were passed into law,” recalls Karen.

The goal for Caleb has always been similar to his other siblings: living a happy, productive, and independent life. “We think he can get there, but it’s not a given. As his parents, we need to make sure that we have the resources in place and continue to foster his confidence and growth. I think we’re on the right track thanks to ABLE United,” says David.