Inclusion is part of a much larger picture than just placement in the regular class within school. It is being included in life and participating using one’s abilities in day to day activities as a member of the community. Inclusion is being a part of what everyone else is, being welcomed and embraced as a member who belongs. Inclusion can occur in schools, churches, playgrounds, work and in recreation.
—Kids Together, Inc.

Tamika Catchings…is one of the most electrifying female basketball players in the world. The unique thing about her is that she is hearing impaired. …As a child Tamika did not wear her hearing aid consistently because kids teased her. …She was embarrassed to use it even though she needed it.

 Marquita Massey, On the Ball! (Disabilities Awareness Newsletter, 2002)

Connect-Ability students challenge you to get involved in raising awareness about disabilities. We want to find new ways to engage our friends in thinking about how to include students with disabilities in every part of school life. We’re happy when you respond to our blog and share with us what you are doing to help raise awareness in your school. Some of you send us poetry and some send us articles or personal stories. We receive art work and photographs. Students we may never meet are connecting with us to contribute to the disability awareness discussion. Knowledge is power. The more we know about disabilities and the many people affected by them the closer we will be to an inclusive environment where we can all learn from one another. Tell us what you think.

So why is there skiing for people with disabilities? Outdoor recreation is fun and healthy for everyone. For people with disabilities, skiing means adventure, exercise, self-respect and independence. Since the completion of my training program [Windham Mountain uses the Amercan Teaching System] I have had students of varying ages, disabilities and skiing levels. They have provided many new learning experiences for me. Sharing my skills and love of skiing has been fun and rewarding to me. Rebecca Lozman, 1995 Disabilities Awareness Newsletter