Greenville Resident Raises Awareness on Scams Targeting the Disabled Community

Greenville Resident Raises Awareness on Scams Targeting the Disabled Community

In the charming city of Greenville, a local resident named Holden Roberts is taking a stand against the predatory schemes that often target individuals with disabilities. His recent experience with a scam has motivated him to speak out and educate others, aiming to empower those in the disabled community to recognize and avoid similar traps.

Understanding the Risks of Scams

Holden, who is on the autism spectrum, shared how a scammer exploited his trust in an attempt to pull him into a get-rich-quick scheme. “I only got out of it at the very end because I realized that ‘Hey, I’ve seen this before, you know, on videos about scam efforts,’” he explained. It was this moment of clarity that safeguarded him, allowing him to prevent a potentially damaging situation.

Scams targeting individuals with disabilities are alarmingly on the rise, taking advantage of vulnerable populations. Holden’s story serves as a crucial reminder that anyone can become a target, regardless of their situation. “If you’re feeling like you’re an outlier and you’re being fooled but nobody else is, then it may feel too embarrassing or awkward to reach out to others about it,” he added, stressing the importance of communication and community support.

Sharing His Experience at CAN Talks

Holden plans to share his story at the upcoming 2024 CAN Talks, hosted by the Barbara Stone Foundation, a Greenville nonprofit dedicated to supporting programs for individuals with disabilities. This year, the fifth annual event will take place on October 22 and features five speakers, including Holden, who will share their personal journeys and insights into living with disabilities.

According to Lara Ceisel, executive director of the foundation, the speakers choose topics they are passionate about, contributing to a deeper understanding of disabilities. “The program is more about connecting the community to see disability beyond, I think, what some of the outdated stereotypes might be,” Ceisel said. The CAN Talks aim to foster connections and expand perspectives, helping attendees appreciate diverse experiences within the community.

Preparing for the Spotlight

In preparation for his turn in the spotlight, Holden and other participants have engaged in a series of group meetings, rehearsals, and one-on-one coaching sessions. This collaborative atmosphere has allowed Holden to not only refine his own narrative but also learn about the varied experiences of his fellow speakers. “One of the main benefits that I found with the program is while I have firsthand experience with autism, I’ve learned a lot more about other people with disabilities who have things that are very different from what I have,” he reflected.

A Lesson for the Audience

Holden’s hope is that attendees leave his presentation with a practical takeaway: to always get a second opinion and conduct their own research when facing potentially scammy situations. His message is clear: it’s not just about protecting oneself, but also about fostering a community where individuals can support each other in times of uncertainty.

A Professional Passion

Holden’s dedication to education extends beyond this event; he also works as an independent-living specialist with Able South Carolina, a disability-led nonprofit focused on providing valuable resources and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. “It’s important to me to be someone that can provide the information that would’ve been helpful for me when I was younger and still learning things,” he noted, showing how passionate he is about being a resource for others.

As the date for CAN Talks approaches, Holden Roberts’ story shines as a beacon of hope and resilience. His mission is not only to share his experience but also to inspire a culture of awareness and support within the disabled community. With each story told, the attendees of CAN Talks will learn the power of knowledge—and together, they can work toward a safer and more informed tomorrow.

For those interested in attending CAN Talks, the event runs from 6:40 to 8:30 p.m. at Centre Stage in downtown Greenville, offering a fertile ground for learning and connection.