Brittany Decker

A trail has become infamous for a feathered phenomenon that will have you hooting with laughter—if you survive to tell the tale!

In the heart of Chilton County, Alabama, a local group is making a big impact with a small gesture. Meet the community champions behind the Prayer Pillow Ministry, who are spreading warmth and hope across the globe.

Dr. Jordan Vaughn, the CEO of Medhelp, is leading groundbreaking research into long COVID-19, challenging the frustrating narrative for patients who've been told there's nothing wrong.

At the Joe Tom Armbruster Agricultural Center, part of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind campus, cultivating plants is just one aspect of the mission.

Lakeshore Foundation, renowned as the home of USA Paralympic training, stands for inclusion and excellence under the leadership of CEO John Kemp

Following a violent weekend in Birmingham, local Pastor Brandon Knight is dedicated to healing and transforming the community through faith and support.

Birmingham proudly hosts the Transplant Games of America, a celebration where organ recipients, donors and their families come together in the Magic City.

Birmingham is hosting the Transplant Games of America. Athletes from across the country, whose lives have been transformed by organ, eye, and tissue donation or transplantation, have gathered to compete in a wide array of events.Among the many inspiring stories, Jamie Stroup from the Pittsburgh area stands out.“I had a heart double lung transplant 29 years ago, and then I had a second heart transplant 9 months ago,” Jamie shared. “Everyone is a winner here. Everyone’s a winner. All winners of l…

Have you ever wondered what it’s like having an Olympian as your coach? Just ask the students at Spain Park High School.“We don’t praise him a lot,” said Lacoria Nelson. “When we go to meets, people are like ‘can we get an autograph,’ but like to us, he’s just coach.”“Got to keep him humble,” said another student.A top-tier athlete and devoted coach, Curtis Thompson is on a dual journey, guiding young athletes while vying for his own spot in the Paris Olympics.“If you look at it, I’ve been train…

“In Bobby Schilli’s world, there are no strangers, only buddies and fans.“At Regions Golf Course, Bobby Schilli isn’t just playing golf; he’s rewriting the rules of inclusion one swing at a time.“I’m confident and I believe it myself,” Schilli said. WVTM 13’s Brittany Decker caught up with Schilli at Inverness Golf Course earlier this week for an event with Down Syndrome Alabama.In addition to an impressive golfer, Schilli, is a fierce advocate for Down Syndrome Alabama. At 29 years old, Schilli…

The sun was shining bright on the golf course Monday as players gathered for a special event. Missy Haughery, the executive director of Down Syndrome Alabama, spoke passionately about the day’s purpose: advocacy, education, and connection.“Today is about advocacy, education and connections, which is the mission of our organization,” she said. “It’s a perfect opportunity not only for us to raise funds to further our mission and to fund our programs, but also for us to educate our golfers so they…

Looking for a meaningful way to spend your weekend? Look no further than the Donor Dash 5K, organized by Donate Life Alabama on Saturday, May 4. This event isn’t just about running or walking — it’s about celebrating the incredible gift of life through organ, eye, and tissue donation. Donate Life Alabama, a collaboration between Legacy of Hope Network and Advancing Sight Network, is dedicated to educating the community about the importance of organ and tissue donation. The Donor Dash 5K serves a…

If you’re someone who loves the aroma of freshly brewed coffee or simply enjoys starting your day on a positive note, then we’ve got just the place for you to explore!Bitty & Beau’s Coffee is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a place of inclusivity and purpose. From its humble beginnings with a family in North Carolina to its newest location in Homewood, this establishment is only a few months old but already making waves in the community.As you step inside Bitty & Beau’s, you’re greeted with w…

In Shelby County, where more than 14,000 public school children rely on the free meal program during the week, the question arises: What happens during weekends and holiday breaks?This is where the Backpack Buddies Program steps in, ensuring that no child goes hungry when other resources aren’t available.>> A MOMENT OF JOY: News We LoveEach week, volunteers pack thousands of bags filled with nutritious and easy-to-prepare food, providing vital sustenance for students to take home. Last year alo…

Phase Gym isn’t just about lifting weights; it’s a haven for breaking fitness barriers.Coach Kevin Burke’s commitment to training people with disabilities has grown into Phase Foundation, a nonprofit expanding into a sensory-inclusive gym.Since its inception in 2015, Phase Gym has been a home in the Lakeview neighborhood, catering to a growing clientele of individuals with disabilities.>> COMING TOGETHER: Project CommUNITYNow, the journey continues as Phase Foundation gears up to open a new loc…

In an extraordinary collaboration, a local 4-year-old named Emmett is changing the world of accessibility. Emmett Connors, our WVTM 13 Project Community Champion, embarked on this remarkable journey with the support of Amazon’s Accessibility Team. The story unfolds at United Ability’s Hand in Hand Preschool, where Amazon’s Accessibility Team took its first steps to make a difference. Emmett, a 4-year-old with speech and mobility disabilities, caught the attention of the team, leading to a groun…

In a city where peaceful nights are far from reality for many children, a dedicated team at Sleep in Heavenly Peace-Birmingham East is changing lives, one bed at a time.Led by Chris Duren, a kind-hearted carpenter, and supported by a team sharing the belief that every child deserves a cozy bed, this group works tirelessly to ensure no child in their town sleeps on the floor. From the Montgomery family whose lives have been touched by this mission, to the countless volunteers and donors, the impa…

In the heart of Jefferson County lies a lifeline: Meals on Wheels. Cassidy Bonner, a volunteer, embodies its spirit, delivering more than just meals — he brings companionship.Each stop on Cassidy’s route isn’t just about dropping off food; it’s about brightening someone’s day. For Miss Sally, it’s a visit that brings joy and a reminder that she’s not alone.Coming Together: Project CommUNITYBut there’s a challenge: a shortage of volunteers and vehicles. Without more help, this lifeline could fray…

Frontporchalabama.com - A new digital experience in Alabama is one that bridges neighborhoods, towns, and cities, celebrating the essence of local shopping. Front Porch Alabama isn’t just a website; it’s a platform that connects communities statewide, offering a virtual experience of the rich tapestry of local businesses.Darcie Plowden, inspired by the unique shops she encountered during a coastal trip, played a pivotal role in this vision. Her passion for sharing these hidden gems with the worl…

In the realm of endurance sports, the Ironman triathlon stands as an ultimate test of human determination and resilience. Completing a 2.4-mile swim, a grueling 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile marathon is a monumental feat that pushes athletes to their limits.Now, imagine achieving this remarkable accomplishment at just 18 years old and being the first known woman with autism to cross the Ironman finish line.Meet Adrienne Bunn, a name that’s quickly becoming synonymous with inspiration and d…