Mission Statement
The On Purpose project works with people who have developmental disabilities to do community improvement projects in West Virginia. We believe that all people have unique purpose and we want to be intentional about inclusion and building community.
Background
Our Mission
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PWIDD) have been historically marginalized and separated from the community. We believe that PWIDD are valuable assets that contribute to civic life. The On Purpose project demonstrates how bringing PWIDD into the heart of civic life helps build a strong and healthy community.
Our History
The On Purpose project was founded in 2019 by the City of St. Albans by a grant from the West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council.
Our Founder

Angie Breeden is passionate about equity and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Angie developed the On Purpose Project with the goal of building inclusivity into the cultural landscape of St. Albans, where she lives with her husband Tony and their four children.
“I have four children with developmental disabilities. This is so important to continue to foster a sense of inclusion and self-worth and community.”
News Coverage
- 12/16/2020 | The gift of being known for your contribution ~ Julie White & Angie Breeden, goodthingsinlife.org [Podcast]
- 11/18/2020 | Lunch Time Live with Buzz Browning Guests: Mayor Scott James & Good Buddy Jimmy Ferrell, WWSARADIO | Mixcloud [Radio]
- 10/24/2020 | 2020 History and Mystery Tour – St Albans WV – YouTube [Video]
- 10/21/2020 | Lunch Time Live with Buzz Browning Guests: Angie Breeden & Julie White – On Purpose Project, WWSARADIO | Mixcloud [Radio]
- 09/22/2020 | Walk with Jimmy Shoutout by Joe Fitzwater| WOWK 13 news [Video]
- 09/09/2020 | Lunch TIme Live with Buzz Browning Guests: Angie Breeden & Julie White WWSARADIO | Mixcloud [Radio]
- 06/29/2020 | Saint Albans On Purpose Project Advisory Board Zooms – Saint Albans Chamber of Commerce Newsletter [Article]
- 06/29/2020 | Volunteers propel St. Albans On Purpose Project by Clint Thomas| Metro Kanawha | wvgazettemail.com [Article]
- 06/17/2020 | Walk a mile in his shoes: St. Albans man completes health journey with help of friends by Lily Bradley | WOWK 13 News (wowktv.com) [Article/Video]
- 02/20/2020 | Lunch Time Live with Buzz Browning Guests Angie Breeden & Julie White, WWSARADIO | Mixcloud [Radio]
- 12/27/2019 | The Saint Albans On Purpose Project – Saint Albans Chamber of Commerce Newsletter [Article]
- 10/10/2019 | On Purpose Project aims to help everyone explore their passion by Nicky Walters | WOWK 13 News (wowktv.com) [Article/Video]
- 8/21/2019 | St. Albans receives disability grant by Lily Bradley | WOWK 13 News (wowktv.com) [Article/Video]
By the Numbers
- The Saint Albans On Purpose Project has followed 15 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities over two years (Fall 2019 thru Summer 2021).
- People with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the On Purpose project have volunteered for or supported 11 different groups and organizations in Saint Albans, WV.
- People with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Saint Albans On Purpose project have developed 40 new relationships (an average of 3 new relationships per person).
- On average, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Saint Albans On Purpose project have increased their civic involvement by 300 percent.
FAQ
- Why is something like the On Purpose project necessary?
Social isolation is a public health crisis. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PWIDD) are at high risk for social isolation. The On Purpose project promotes health and well-being by facilitating inclusive projects that create opportunities for citizen leadership and build relationships between people with disabilities and the greater community.
- Is the community typically resistant to accepting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities?
No. Communities, businesses and organizations consistently prove open to accepting the contributions and participation of people with IDD
- What is the biggest obstacle to community and civic involvement for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities?
Consistent transportation remains a major impediment to community involvement for PWIDD.
- How can I get involved in the On Purpose project?
Great question! Check out out Volunteer to get started.
- How can I start something like this in my city?
Contact us. We have lots of ideas.
Video Library
Images
Team

Angie Breeden
Founder & Coordinator

Mark Totten
Videographer









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