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Shellan’s Story
Breaking stigma is a collective fight.
READ FULL STORY: Shellan’s StoryMy name is Shellan Saling. I have many identities including being a ginger, a runner, an athlete, a rock climber, someone who is lived abroad, someone who likes help others, an occasional public speaker, and a person who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
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Kiera’s Story
Reading Between the Lines
READ FULL STORY: Kiera’s StoryDiagnosed with dyslexia in first grade, Kiera learned to read by guessing from context — and became so good at seeing how things fit together that she’s now pursuing a career in writing. She shares how her learning difference became an asset, why inclusive spaces matter as much as accommodations, and the tools that help…
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Elaina’s Story
When Perseverance Leads to a Calling
READ FULL STORY: Elaina’s StoryElaina’s story is about perseverance amid an education system not set up for students with learning differences to succeed. Her experience grounds her in pursuing her doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Diagnosed with Dyslexia at age five, Elaina was enrolled in Charles Armstrong School, a small private school focusing on students with learning differences in Belmont, CA.
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Riley’s Story
Finding Strength in Writing
READ FULL STORY: Riley’s StoryFinding Strength in Writing When I announced The RILEY Project’s launch in January 2022, I received incredibly positive feedback. However, a natural question arose, why would you start a nonprofit at 22? Why would you want to give back in this way? The question has guided my work and the storytelling I am trying to convey with…
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Ben’s Story
A Best Friend for Life
READ FULL STORY: Ben’s StoryBen’s story shows how a learning difference, once understood, can become a source of empathy and self-acceptance. We’re grateful to Ben for sharing his journey with the 1 in 5 who learn differently. Read it in his own words below — responses have been lightly edited for clarity.
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Maha’s Story
A World Apart in Understanding
READ FULL STORY: Maha’s StoryMeet Maha, a person with ADHD who was born in Oman and attended a private school that did not cater to her specific needs. She started feeling different from her elementary school peers and described her experience as if she had not “taken a life class I was supposed to attend.” Maha struggled with self-esteem…
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Adam’s Story
Room to Be Myself
READ FULL STORY: Adam’s StoryAdam’s story showcases the strengths of schools designed for students with learning differences. We are grateful for Adam to share his experiences with the education system and how his learning differences have shaped him as a young adult.
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Thalia’s Story
Driven By Choices and Challenges
READ FULL STORY: Thalia’s StoryMeet Thaila. Her unique journey of learning differently and understanding how her differences shape her is precisely the kind of story The RILEY Project is eager to share. Thaila’s experience sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals with learning differences, providing valuable insights into the world of education and self-advocacy.
TELL YOUR
STORY
Every story deserves to be heard.
Share your story with our community. Your experience could be exactly what someone else needs to hear. Whether it’s the moment things started to click, a challenge you’re still working through, or advice you wish you’d had, your voice belongs here.
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THE NEXT
VOICE.
Every gift helps another young person feel seen.
Your donation funds storytelling and leadership programs for teens and young adults, brings families, educators, and community partners together through events and workshops, provides scholarships, and keeps our resources free and accessible.
♡ The RILEY Project is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.