Team BAC Attends SourceAmerica’s XForce Conference

Team BAC was excited to have 15 employees and 2 board members to attend the Xforce National Conference this May.

This is a conference organized by SourceAmerica® annually. It brings together people with unique perspectives, experiences, and energy to multiply employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Our team deepened their knowledge, expanded their network, and gained insights into important issues related to AbilityOne employment opportunities.

Team BAC was excited to have 15 employees and 2 board members to attend the Xforce National Conference last week. This is a conference organized by SourceAmerica® annually. It brings together people with unique perspectives, experiences, and energy to multiply employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Our team deepened their knowledge, expanded their network, and gained insights into important issues related to AbilityOne employment opportunities.

Below are a few accessibility services @SourceAmerica provided at the conference:

• All sessions were captioned, and all deaf or hearing-impaired attendees had access to ASL interpreters.
• Live audio description options were available to attendees with visual impairments.
• All conference attendees had access to the CARE Lounge, a quiet, sensory-friendly space where attendees could sit and relax or even stretch and move between sessions.
• The conference venue was also accessible to attendees who use mobility devices.

The 1200 plus attendees received a square breathing technique sticker to take with them to incorporate this relaxation technique into their daily routines.

Square breathing, also known as box breathing, is a powerful relaxation technique that can help you manage stress and promote calmness. It’s a simple but effective method of focusing on your breath. Here’s how it works:

• • Breathe in slowly for four counts.
  • Hold your breath for four counts.
  • Exhale slowly for four counts.
  • Hold your breath again for four counts after exhaling.

This pattern creates a “box,” hence the name “box breathing.” It’s like drawing the sides of a square with your breath. For this, participants were advised to trace the textured square as they breathed.

The benefits of square breathing include:

• Lowering stress: Regulating your breath can reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and potentially lower blood pressure. (1)
• Shift reset: Square breathing helps you move away from the “fight-or-flight” state. (1)
• Calming the mind: Even during tranquil moments, practicing square breathing brings mindfulness to your breath and acts as a form of meditation. (1)

Box Breathing Benefits and Techniques (clevelandclinic.org) (1)

We will be joining SourceAmerica® in Indianapolis, May 5^th – 7^th, 2025. #GoBeAForce and join us there!( Xforce | SourceAmerica® ) Feel free to explore more about Xforce and consider incorporating square breathing into your daily routine for relaxation and well-being! 😊

#GoBeAForce #Accessibility #AbilityOne   

#SourceAmerica