Ripple Effect is a multimedia project that looks at the positive impact that meaningful employment has on people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) and the community surrounding them. The project consists of a portrait series of people with IDD who have careers – some upwards of 25 years, a film that follows the work and home life of Max – a man with IDD who has worked at a church for 17 years, and an article that provides insight into the issues affecting this population.

A screening of the film along with a gallery of prints was shown in Dallas, Texas for IDD community members and the public. A selection of images were part of the NEXT Exhibition at the George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

This project was created by Hunter Folsom Lacey, a Texas-based photographer. Her work explores human connection, memory, and personal ties to place. Ripple Effect is inspired by Hunter's brother Chase who has Congenital Encephalopathy.

hunterfolsom[at]gmail.com

This piece was published by NPR. It was also shortlisted for the Arts Thread Global Design Graduate Show in Collaboration with Gucci, 2022. In addition, it also won second place for the Nashman Prize at the George Washington University.

Photographs of the Dallas event by Madison Raney.
Photograph of the DC exhibition provided by GWU.