It started out as a project for college graduation.  Today, it is a leading voice for inclusion so that all children can be fully immersed in society.  It is the National Inclusion Project.

By this time, most of us know the history and the hard work that has been put into the National Inclusion Project. And I am sure we all want to congratulate Clay Aiken, Diane Bubel and the entire staff of the National Inclusion Project for all their success.  It has been a joy to watch their vision become reality.

Like many of you, I spent some time reading the new web-site for the NIP.  It is all very impressive.   I was amazed at the incredible list of names that are tied to the Project in its quest for inclusion.

The National Inclusion Project works with many different organizations including:

“YMCAs, Best Buddies International, Boys & Girls Clubs, CampFire USA, 4H, the ARC – as well as many other local parks and recreation departments, community centers, and privately-run programs.”

And look at the impressive list of institutions that have formed partnerships with The National Inclusion Project.  They include:

“Johns Hopkins University’s National Center for Summer Learning, the University of Massachusetts-Boston’s Center for Social Development and Education, the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability, the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration, and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center.”

Next, I visited the Annual Report.  It was interesting to read about the 35 programs across the country where children of all abilities have a chance to play and learn together.

Perhaps the most impressive statement on the page is short, but telling:

“During the financial crisis of 2008, the National Inclusion Project managed funds very conservatively and did not experience any investment losses.  In addition, 89% of every dollar spent went directly to inclusive programs.”

This makes it easy to decide to support the Project, especially when you know the money is being used correctly.

If you haven’t had a chance, take a look at the new web-site. It is full of interesting facts and you will come away with a feeling of pride for this great accomplishment.  Clay, Diane and their dedicated staff have done so much in bringing awareness of inclusion to the public.