What can I personally do to be more inclusive?

Inclusion: the practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or mental disabilities and members of other minority groups.

To be inclusive we must think of each other as equals; that each person has the potential and capacity to be our friend, employee or employer, family member, or hold any other role within our lives. We must not limit others to what we THINK based on our initial biases or impressions. To treat someone who has different abilities as an equal, also means to let them make their own life choices, whether they end in triumphs or mistakes.

As families and friends, we must put an equal emphasis on self-actualization as we do on safety and protection. In the name of protection, we often put limitations on others; a healthy balance is key.

As employers and co-workers, we must be open minded to how people with different abilities can positively influence our workplaces, providing a diverse skill set and view point; without being scared of accommodations that might need to be made.

As service providers, we must work FOR the individuals we serve, dissolving the staff "power over" dynamic. We are coaches, mentors, role models, and above all, we are equals.

The Adult Skills Center serves individuals with diverse intellectual, developmental and mental health needs. We individualize services to meet the unique needs of each client and provides coaching, support, vocational training, and employment to ensure clients achieve their highest level of independence in order to become fully integrated within the community.