Our Origins

Aqua is a disabled student and artist whose experience navigating limited mobility shaped the founding of Draw Together, an initiative operating under OAC Together, a nonprofit focused on inclusion and accessibility.

When Aqua was in seventh grade, a neurological condition caused permanent paralysis and significantly limited her mobility. Everyday activities such as leaving home, attending events, or traveling independently became major challenges. Before her diagnosis, Aqua was deeply involved in creative pursuits, especially art, dance, and music. While her physical mobility was restricted, her interest in artistic expression remained constant. Aqua also held a long-standing dream of exploring the world beyond her home, a goal that became increasingly difficult as mobility barriers grew.

In 2025, Together with Aqua was created to address a specific accessibility barrier: transportation. Through student-led fundraising and community sponsorships, the initiative raised $30,000 to support the purchase and modification of a wheelchair-accessible van. This removed a long-term mobility obstacle and allowed Aqua greater independence and participation outside the home, making it possible for her to travel and engage with the world more freely.

The experience highlighted highlighted a major issue: many disabled children face barriers not only to mobility, but also to creative opportunities. That realization directly inspired the creation of Draw Together, an initiative focused on expanding access to artistic expression and resources for disabled youth.

Founded by Anna Zhang, Founder of Draw Together and Chair of the Inclusion & Accessibility Committee at OAC