We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Newton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexandra, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk, to me, is not just a leap into uncertainty but rather an opportunity for growth and innovation. Throughout my life and career, I’ve approached risk as a catalyst for change, recognizing that staying within the confines of comfort often stifles progress. Whether it was transitioning from a stable career in education to launching my own business or implementing novel approaches to address community needs, embracing calculated risks has been integral to my journey. Each risk taken has led to invaluable lessons, personal development, and ultimately, greater fulfillment in making a meaningful impact.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

The decision to transition from teaching special education to entrepreneurship was driven by a profound desire to amplify support for individuals with IDD. From a young age, I’ve been immersed in supporting individuals with special needs, driven by my cousin Marcus’s influence and the inclusive environment fostered by his loving family. Over the years, my journey led me through various roles in education and caregiving, providing me with invaluable insights into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families. Observing the limitations in community accessibility and support for individuals with IDD fueled my determination to create positive change. I recognized a gap in resources addressing health and wellness for adults with IDD, particularly in areas like nutrition, exercise, and tech-free social engagement. Rather than merely lamenting the lack of options, I resolved to be proactive, leveraging my expertise in special education and exercise science to establish a solution-oriented business.

Fueled by a combination of personal passion and professional expertise, I embarked on the journey of launching my business. This coming August, Accessible Athletics LLC will celebrate our second year in business! Since launching, I have served over 15 wonderful clients and their rockstar families through personalized fitness plans, individualized nutrition guides, adapted recipes, independence-driven cooking lessons, group or individual gym sessions and much more! The services I provide can take place on-line or in-person at either my gym, a client’s home, a client’s gym or Colorado’s beautiful parks and trails!

With each step, I’ve embraced the opportunity to merge my dedication to health and wellness with my commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities, creating a fulfilling path towards realizing my dream. This business serves as a beacon of empowerment and inclusion within the community by offering comprehensive support and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). By addressing the gap in accessible and inclusive services, this business not only enhances the quality of life for individuals with IDD but also promotes a more inclusive and understanding community where everyone is valued and supported.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For an adventure in Denver with my best friend, I’d start with a sunrise hike up one of Colorado’s breathtaking 14ers, perhaps Grays Peak or Mount Bierstadt offering panoramic views of the stunning Colorado landscape.

After working up an appetite, we’d head to Brewability Lab, a local pizza and brewery that employs individuals with special needs. There, we’d enjoy a frosty local brew and delicious pies, with a side of heartwarming camaraderie from the staff!

In the evenings, we’d catch a thrilling Avalanche hockey game at Ball Arena, cheering on our favorite team while soaking in the electric atmosphere of the stadium!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

The cornerstone of my success, and that of my brand, undeniably rests upon my clients and their journey towards achieving their goals. Their progress is not only a measure of success but also a testament to the effectiveness and impact of the services and support provided. Every milestone reached by my clients resonates deeply, fueling my passion and dedication to continually improve and innovate. Their trust and commitment inspire me to uphold the highest standards of excellence and to remain steadfast in my mission to empower and uplift each individual I serve.

A VERY big shoutout to my first clients Reece, Jack, Sophia, Rick, Samuel, Jordan, Mattias and Samantha for taking a chance on me; I wouldn’t be here without your hard-work, dedication and faith in me and Accessible Athletics!
I’d also like to thank my loving partner, Nicholas; your belief in me and your willingness to stand by my side, offering guidance and motivation, has been invaluable. I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support and encouragement you’ve provided me with on this journey towards realizing my dreams. And as always, a HUGE thank you to both of my parents, Tracey Ebert-McDowell and Steve Newton, for showing me how much impact one person can bring to others; LOOK MOMMA, I MADE IT!!

Website: https://accessibleathletic.wixsite.com/website

Instagram: accessibleathleticsllc | alexandra_newton_

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-t-newton

Image Credits
I took all these photographs -Alexandra Newton

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