The Learning Tree Community

Meet Le'Deana Brown, founder of Midwest Leak Magazine and storytelling partner for Common Threads: Portfolios of Joy and Possibility in collaboration with The Learning Tree and the Indiana Governor's Council for People with Disabilities.

Common Threads lifts the lived experiences of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, highlighting joy, resilience, and belonging across Indiana. Every ability strengthens our communities. When we document these stories, we also surface the everyday practices that help people build full, connected lives.

Through this work, we have seen what truly supports thriving: real relationships with neighbors, friends, churches, families, coworkers, mentors, and peers. These natural supports create safety, joy, and opportunity.