About
ProjectFREE was founded in Gulfport with a vision of creating a supportive environment for adults with disabilities.
With years of experience in the field of disability services, our team at ProjectFREE brings expertise and dedication to our mission. We have honed our skills in providing tailored training and services to empower individuals with disabilities.
Having served a diverse range of clients in the Gulfport community, we take pride in our positive impact on the lives of adults with disabilities. Each client we work with receives personalized support and encouragement to reach their full potential.
ProjectFree is led by a group of educators, parents and advocates with outstanding experience and passionate determination. Kim Costanzo put this group together and fueled their progress inspired by her indomitable niece, Lauren, who personifies what is possible when a person focuses on their abilities and breaking down barriers. Lauren happens to have Down Syndrome.
From the day of her birth Lauren’s family recognized that her life would be all about what she would achieve in spite of what the larger society might think is possible. Thirty years of challenges and successes including Lauren being the first mainstreamed student in a Public High School, a performing musician and holding down a job in the “real world”, still places Lauren in a world with very limited career and independent life options. What about going off to college? Having real career choices? Living independently with a network of friends and a rich and productive life after 9 to 5? Kim had to admit after years of advocating and working as an educator and administrator in special education that no such fun, socially stimulating and safe environment as the type she envisioned for Lauren existed. With that realization, the idea for Project Free.”
Kim turned her incredible energy, passion and determination to the creation of ProjectFREE Gallery & Studio. A place where people with diverse abilities can live, learn, work and play in a community with world class independent housing.
Skill Building
Engage in tailored programs to enhance skills and create everlasting potential in our disabled community.
Creativity Workshops
Partake in creative activities that nurture self-expression and confidence.
Community Integration
Join events and initiatives that promote inclusivity and social interaction. Inluding Art, Music, and Culinary Arts
Our Vision
To build a community where individuals with disabilities thrive independently and creatively.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide innovative training and services that foster independence and creativity among adults with disabilities in Gulfport.