Interview by dulce Villa. Photos provided by connecting point of park cities .
This week, we’re shining a spotlight on Hope Fest I Connect 2025—a high-energy evening with a powerful purpose. Hosted at Happiest Hour on April 24, the event supports Connecting Point of Park Cities (CPPC), a nonprofit that empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through connection, creativity, and community engagement.
At the helm of CPPC is Executive Director Cynthia K. Olson, whose passion for the mission is deeply personal. Inspired by her brother Aaron, who was born with Down syndrome, and following in the footsteps of their mother, a longtime special education teacher, Cynthia brings both heart and experience to her leadership. With more than 12 years in nonprofit roles at organizations like Austin Street Center, Best Buddies International, and The Salvation Army, as well as a marketing and operations background with McDonald’s Corporation, she’s dedicated to expanding opportunities for CPPC’s “Teammates” through vocational, educational, and recreational programming.
In anticipation of the big night, we caught up with the CPPC team to learn more about how they’re creating meaningful opportunities, what guests can expect at this year’s celebration, and how the community can get involved beyond the dance floor.
Cynthia: The most important opportunity for our Teammates is connection to the community. For some, it is their only out-of-home activity. We focus on building independence, confidence, and connection through meaningful activities. Whether it’s yoga, adaptive tennis, or visits to the DMA (Dallas Museum of Art), every day is filled with opportunities to grow and have fun. We don’t just discuss inclusion, we make it happen!
Cynthia: We have a very shy Teammate. If you ask her, “How are you?” She would smile, giggle, and possibly say, “Ok.”
If you asked if she wanted a Coke or a Dr. Pepper, she’d reply, “My dad likes Coke.” She could not understand the concept of her having an opinion, much less express it.
With consistent coaching, over several years, she has blossomed! Now, she initiates conversations and asks follow-up questions. She will express her preferences. She accepted a speaking part in a Teammate produced play, and delivered it beautifully.
Cynthia: In addition to being an amazing evening of fun, Hope Fest I Connect 2025! generates more than 30 percent of our annual operating budget! The event helps us increase awareness. The evening helps us recruit more people to “Connect, Advocate, and Give” – time and resources. We are especially excited about the live music from Straight Tequila Night. Many of our Teammates and Coaches are practicing their line dancing. Come join us!
Cynthia: Growth! We are currently in a 90-day strategic planning process to refine our vision. Check back to see where the process takes us.
Cynthia: Volunteers are critical to our success. We encourage people to share their talents and interests with our Teammates. If you aren’t sure you have a talent to offer, we’ll help you find it. Sit and play a board game or read a book. You don’t need to be an expert, just bring the desire to connect. Volunteers bring the community to us!
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