I have spent much of my working life in an environment where I have heard deeply moving stories illustrating acts of courage and wonderful expressions of love. Yet many of the "heroes" of these stories have experienced a profound degree of devaluation and marginalization, perhaps related to their mental or physical disability. One could expect that they would act with retaliation and revenge at the treatment they receive - and sometimes they do. Yet often, surprisingly, they choose a different way. Many of them rise above, forgive, choose to respond with grace, advocate for friends, etc. They choose to act with moral courage in a culture that sometimes tries to "put them in their place." Increasingly, however, I see this courage being recognized and given credence by a growing number of people. Slowly it seems that it is becoming a movement increasing in strength and recognition.

As an organization it is our commitment to advance this movement. It is our deep desire to create environments of acceptance and nurture; places where the uniqueness of the individual is not just tolerated but is celebrated for all its worth. We believe that every person has the potential to make a unique contribution to his or her environment and to the people around them. 

Let me quote the poet Rainer Mara Rilke: Believe that with your feelings and your work you are taking part in the greatest; the more strongly you cultivate this belief, the more will reality and the world go forth from it.  Indeed, we believe that we are taking part in something of great significance! We therefore welcome you to join us in this commitment to accept and include people, not just into the edges but into the very essence of our lives. Indeed, we invite you to help us change the world!

Steve Thiessen, CEO