The Benefits of Inclusion

First-hand accounts detailing the benefits of inclusion in national service.

“I think everybody has things to gain when they’re involved with volunteerism…. maybe most importantly of all, the ability to feel good about the things that you’re doing, and to know that the things that you’re doing can make a contribution to the programs that need contributions.”

- National service member with a disability

"What I gave came back tenfold... I was finally able to give back some of the love and nurturing that I got as a child."

- National service member with a disability

"Because of her disability, I adjusted the format of our team meetings to fit her learning style. This not only helped her follow along, but it significantly increased the functionality and efficiency of our meetings. Everyone benefited from what started as an accommodation."

-AmeriCorps*NCCC team leader

Many individuals with disabilities have had the opportunity to actively participate in national service. This participation has had a positive impact, not only on the communities where they were serving, but also on themselves and national service as a whole.

By submitting your story, you have a unique opportunity to share your experience, knowledge, and lessons learned with other current or potential members with disabilities.

The Benefits of Inclusion: Share your story

Share your story with the National Service Inclusion Project! If you had the opportunity to serve with a national service program and have seen how inclusion has benefited individuals serving, individuals being served, or the program as a whole, please share your story.

We would love to hear from:

• - Individuals with disabilities who have had the opportunity to serve
• - Service members, volunteers, or program staff who served alongside or supervised individuals with disabilities
• - Anyone else who can portray the benefits of an inclusive service environment

Note: Your contact information will only be used by our project staff members to contact you for clarification or additional information.