our story

How spork! got started

SPORK! is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and dynamic online platform created by and for people with cognitive, physical, and non-apparent (invisible) disabilities. At our core, we’re driven by a powerful mission: to amplify the unique, diverse, and authentic voices of the Disabled community.

Guided and managed by individuals who bring firsthand experience and authentic perspectives of living with a disability, SPORK! shines a spotlight on the creativity, resilience, and advocacy within our community. We celebrate and document the work of inspiring individuals and businesses who champion disability rights and inclusion.

But SPORK! is more than a platform — it’s a vibrant, connected network. We bring together activists, designers, care providers, and community members to share resources, spark collaboration, and build a stronger, united movement for accessibility and equity.

Join us as we elevate voices, break barriers, and create a space where every difference is valued and celebrated.

 SPORK! Exclusive: Videos        Articles        Projects          

HISTORY

In 2010, while studying product design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Whitney Hill and her associate Willa Crolius found inspiration in a class assignment to create an informative publication for individuals with non-apparent differences—such as cognitive and learning disabilities. To describe this community, they coined the term Unique Intellectual.

Recognizing a significant gap in existing resources, Whitney and Willa set out to develop content that was not only informative but also relatable and humanizing—far beyond the then typical scope of disabled literature. Their vision was to challenge prevailing stigmas and misconceptions by creating a platform that genuinely represented adults with non-apparent differences, a group often overlooked in published materials.

By January 2013, Whitney had begun building SPORK!’s website and social media presence, actively engaging writers, volunteers, and videographers who identify with or advocate for the Disabled community, thereby expanding the platform’s reach and impact.

SPORK! was formally established as an Illinois nonprofit organization in September 2013. Following official recognition in November 2015, it received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in January 2016. Whitney continues to lead and manage the website and nonprofit, offering review and consulting services to individuals, while Willa serves as a dedicated member of SPORK!’s Board of Directors.

In 2020, SPORK! expanded its scope of services to include conducting access surveys and reviewing inclusive materials, further advancing its commitment to promoting accessibility and fostering a welcoming, affirming environment within the broader Disabled community.

WHY ARE YOU NAMED SPORK?

Unique. Quirky. Versatile. Innovative. Beloved.

These are the words that describe the characteristics of a spork - a utensil that is neither a spoon or fork, (despite how it looks), but instead an independent merger of the two. 

In a similar manner, regardless of ability or subculture within the differently able / disabled community, it is not difficult to feel caught between the intersectional divide in our society. Being one or the other; living with imposed labels that don’t quite really fit who you are.

We are named SPORK! because we believe the very characteristics that make us, the differently able / disabled stand out, is the exact same thing that makes us unique, quirky, versatile and overall, beloved.

Never forget, an instrument of change comes in a lot of different forms 

why do you Also use the term 'differently able' ?

Differently abled is a euphemistic term for someone who is disabled. It can also apply to people with predominantly physical or cognitive challenges.

Although there is some debate within the community on whether or not “differently able” is an ableist or antiquated term such as “handicapped”, “challenged”, or “special needs” - for many the term recognizes the diversity within the spectrum of disability while also positively describing one’s own ability. Many individuals and societies still struggle with not only the stigma of having a difference, but also by how their environment literally interprets the historical origins of the word “disabled”.

Emptimology of the word disabled (adj.):

"incapacitated," 1630s, past-participle adjective from disable. Earlier it meant "legally disqualified" (mid-15c.)

Ultimately with nearly 90% of SPORK!’s team and writers identifying with having a difference / disability, we continually strive to observe, honor and innovate the community by allowing room for self-identification and cultural intersection.

For those who especially lack a support group, diagnosis, label, platform and/or place within the larger Disabled community, SPORK! proudly welcomes you and your differences.

what is the writing PROCESS like?

SPORK!s Writers are the heart of the organization!

Founder and Director, Whitney Hill, works closely with all Volunteer Writers to help provide technical assistance via. roundtable sessions, writing aid and personal support. Since a large number of SPORK! Writers are new to openly discussing their differences / disabilities, it is very important to us that we ensure a high level of comfort throughout the writing process.

In this remote position, all interactions between Whitney and SPORK! Volunteers are conducted through phone, email and video calls at the convenience and availability of the volunteer. All writing topics and deadlines are self-assigned but can be delegated upon request.

Become a writer!

What is the narration process like?

A majority of SPORK! Volunteer Narrators are professionally trained as Voice Over Actors / Artists. SPORK! tries to ensure that our volunteer narrators are of this quality so that each recording provides a fully immersive experience for readers who are visually impaired and/or have cognitive concerns.

Of course, nothing can compare to a writer reading their own story! We also work with writers who wish to narrate their work by providing light technical assistance for submitted audio files.

In this remote position, all interactions between SPORK! Founder and Director, Whitney Hill, and Volunteers are conducted through phone, email and video calls at the convenience and availability of the volunteer. Deadlines for narrations vary. All completed narrations are added to the Audio Library and accompanied article.

Become a Narrator!

Does SPOrK! sell any of its content?

NO.

At the moment SPORK! operates fully off of volunteer assistance. Outside of donations, we make no profit off of the service we provide to the Disabled community and operate purely out of the need within the community for accessible, non-judgemental, innovative platforms for creatives. 

We do not sell content and claim no ownership to our writers original work, art and/or illustrations.

Have a question? Contact whitney@sporkability.org