Watch The Ability Exchange

The Ability Exchange is a heartwarming and thought-provoking documentary film released in 2016, directed by Bing Wang. The film takes an up-close and personal look at the lives of five unique individuals from diverse backgrounds and their journey towards interdependence, connection, and lifelong learning. The Ability Exchange focuses on the theme of inclusiveness and examines the transformative power of community-based learning, where people exchange skills, knowledge, and experiences in a supportive and collaborative environment. The movie explores how, when the developmentally disabled and so-called "able-bodied" individuals come together to learn and share, everyone is enriched in unexpected ways.

The film takes place in Newark, New Jersey, where we meet Sasha, a bubbly, bright-eyed 24-year-old with Down Syndrome, who dreams of being a chef. She is paired with Chef Josh, a professional chef who volunteers with The Ability Exchange program. With Josh's guidance, Sasha learns various aspects of cooking, from grocery shopping to food preparation to plating, and cultivates valuable life skills and confidence.

We also meet Justin, a 30-something year old with cerebral palsy. He is paired with Ann, an energetic retiree who is passionate about gardening. Ann shares her love of growing vegetables with Justin, and he learns about soil health, planting techniques, and harvest timing. The two form a deep bond through their gardening sessions. Justin is touched by Ann's kindness and patience, and Ann is amazed by Justin's resilience and determination.

The Ability Exchange also introduces us to Ryan, a recent high school graduate on the autism spectrum. Ryan is paired with Mark, a volunteer in his mid-50s who comes from a different cultural background. Despite their initial differences, Ryan and Mark quickly hit it off, bonding over their mutual love for photography. Ryan learns what it takes to capture stunning photos, and Mark learns about autism and how to communicate with someone on the spectrum.

The film also focuses on Kay, a bright, bubbly young woman with cerebral palsy who has been involved in The Ability Exchange for several years. Kay shares her story of how the program has changed her life for the better and has helped her to become more independent and confident.

In addition to the personal stories of the participants, the film highlights the work of The Ability Exchange, a community-based organization that offers free instructional classes to individuals with disabilities, their families, and volunteers. The program prides itself on being an open and welcoming space where people of all abilities can come together and learn from each other.

The Ability Exchange is a powerful example of how human connection and shared knowledge can transform lives. The film encourages viewers to look beyond labels and differences and instead focus on our shared humanity. Through interdependence, compassion, and an open attitude towards learning, we can all achieve our dreams and form meaningful connections with each other.

In conclusion, The Ability Exchange is a heartwarming and uplifting documentary that explores the transformative power of community-based learning. Through the personal stories of its participants and the work of The Ability Exchange program, the film offers a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusiveness, compassion, and lifelong learning.

The Ability Exchange is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.7.