How often in life do any of us have the opportunity to feel truly understood and appreciated—not just for what we can do, but also for what we are capable of? What if a place existed where those of us who “slip through the cracks of life” could go and not only feel those things, but move ahead, experiencing the care and respect all of us deserve to have—and need to flourish!

Many adults with mild to moderate disabilities have aged out of special education services provided by schools and state or county funded agencies. Often, they are overlooked, “lost in the shuffle,” a great untapped resource of talent and inspiration.

And so, the idea for a social club, a place to belong, was born; the brainchild of Michael Steiner (of Long Beach). Having worked as an independent living skills contractor for more than fifteen years with many disabled adults, Steiner had not only seen the power of social interaction change people’s lives, but had experienced it on a most profound level.

In August of 2003, a group of four talented musicians met at a function for disabled individuals, came together, and formed a band. Soon, the band became so good that Harbor Regional Center requested they perform at a dance for their clients!

No Boundaries was a hit! Some of the band performances have included events for Easter Seals, The Jeffrey Foundation, Special Olympics, Ability First, ARC-Long Beach, Harbor Regional Center, and World American Cultural Exchanges.

In June 2006, ExBound, with the help of sponsor Gibson Guitars, became the first United States Company in history that services people with disabilities, to be invited to perform in China. The tour included Fudan University and the Great Wall of China.

Suddenly Steiner’s vision crystallized—the importance of a permanent social club become clear.  After almost a year of collaboration with clients and parents, ExBound, a public benefit corporation, was founded. Having been approved for non-profit status, ExBound will be independent of state and local agency funding, and will be reliant upon private donations, fundraising, and corporate sponsorship. Steiner’s goal is to make the clubs available to all members regardless of their financial status; therefore, ExBound is ready to accept donations to develop and open the first social club, ExZone. Donations may be sent to ExBound’s address below.

“I want potential members who are just sitting at home to have a place where they can fit in, be a member of a club, to experience a sense of belonging,” Steiner says. Activities will include: exercise classes, yoga, art, acting, and music lessons, field trips, movie nights, video production, and computers for the development of skills as well as leisure, and sports teams to encourage participation in the Special Olympics.

ExBound has incorporated a new concept called “Road Shows and Talent Discoveries”. This concept is a traveling showcase that promotes our member’s talents as well as search for new talent. Individuals who can sing, dance, share comedy and other artistic expressions are encouraged to participate.

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