Tiburon - The National Inclusion Project has partnered with Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary to create an inclusive environment where children with and without disabilities can play, learn and laugh TOGETHER. As part of the partnership, the National Inclusion Project provides the Let’s ALL Play program model, training, expertise, annual Power of Play Conference and a wide network of inclusion experts ready to problem solve and share best practices on ensuring that no child sits on the sidelines.
Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary is one of just 13 new organizations that the National Inclusion Project has chosen to partner with this year. “We believe our partnership with Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary will get us one step closer to making the inclusion of children with disabilities the expectation and not the exception,” says Nick Leisey, National Inclusion Project Executive Director.
Research shows overwhelming evidence that the Let’s ALL Play model helps children with disabilities improve self-esteem, social skills and confidence, while those without disabilities improved their leadership, problem solving and empathy skills. The model makes it possible for all children to come together, and participate in recreational activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, community service, physical fitness and more. More importantly, it allows children with and without disabilities to create friendships that may have not been possible in other parts of their lives.
Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary staff focus on inspiring and engaging youth through unique conservation experiences, volunteer science, and a dynamic nature summer camp. The sanctuary is located on Richardson Bay and is comprised of 10.5 acres of uplands and 900 acres of subtidal bay. It is part of a nation-wide network of National Audubon Society nature centers, chapters, and programs focused on bird conservation and public engagement. “We’re thrilled to partner with the National Inclusion Project look forward to using this partnership to bring the joy of nature and birdwatching to everyone,” says Casey Arndt, Richardson Bay's Engagement and Operations Manager and Let’s All Play Program Manager.
About the National Inclusion Project: The National Inclusion Project was co-founded in 2003 by entertainer Clay Aiken and serves to bridge the gap that exists between young people with disabilities and the world around them. By driving the movement for social inclusion in after school programs, summer camps, and community based activities, children of all abilities learn, play and laugh together. Over the last twelve years, the Project has provided training, curriculum, and support to YMCAs, JCCs, Boys & Girls Clubs, 4H, CampFire USA, Kids Museums, Zoos and other community organizations looking to become inclusive or enhance their inclusive programs. For more information on the National Inclusion Project and to help ensure no child sits on the sidelines, visit their website at www.inclusionproject.org.
