As part of recognising Disability Awareness Week, one of the islands’ top advocacy groups recently held its only annual fundraiser, drawing 500 attendees.
At its ‘Making Waves’ breakfast, on Tuesday, Inclusion Cayman reviewed past highlights as well as outlining plans for the next year, supported by a $75,000 contribution from the Aall Foundation, which has pledged to match the next 75 donations.
The foundation made a similar pledge last year, with director Michael Austin calling it a “no brainer” to support the invaluable work of the advocacy group.
Inclusion Cayman CEO Shan Harriman said she is inspired by her daughter to continue pushing for greater opportunities and acceptance for all community members.
She said the funds raised will all go toward supporting free advocacy services for inclusive education, employment and community life.
“It helps us provide resources that are desperately needed,” she told the Compass. “We have a small team, but we do major work.”
Offering real solutions
Speakers included Inclusion Cayman deputy chair Daniel Reid, as well as Inclusion advocates for education (Danielle Lowe), community life (Shreya Nauhria), and employment (Jennifer Leach Tippets), along with Special Olympian Jomani Lee.
Nauhria shared her gratitude for the group’s support of her 7-year-old son, Samarth, who she described as “friendly, energetic, charismatic and very capable”. The rare genetic disorder with which he was born affects his verbal and cognitive skills.
“From the moment he arrived, I had the biggest dreams for Samarth,” she said. “However, as time passed, it became clear that he was missing some of the milestones that doctors and parents looked for.”
While he may have missed the target ages for children learning to sit, walk and talk, Nauhria said she and her husband brought their medical expertise to seek support resources.
“Inclusion Cayman has always supported Samarth and us as a family to find a place for Samarth in the community,” she said.
“As some of you can relate, the struggle has been real – the struggle to find spaces for him that are safe and, moreover, welcoming.”
Among other areas, Inclusion Cayman helped the family find an engaging, non-exclusive summer camp programme.
She added, “They didn’t just offer sympathy. They offered solutions. Their dedication and proactive approach make all the difference.”
Doubling work placement
Inclusion Cayman focuses on supporting community members of all ages. Harriman noted that the organisation has doubled its work-placement numbers over the past year, among its other efforts to support education opportunities and other activities.
“We’ve also expanded our community providers,” Harriman said, noting collaborations with Walkers Art Camp, the Cayman Drama Society, YMCA, Art Nest and sports groups for rugby and pickleball.
Another milestone is Inclusion Cayman’s new partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the first government agency to work with them on inclusive employment.
She said the organisation is grateful for the financial support from community members, but also their showing support by coming together.
“We believe that everybody should have a seat at the table, and that everybody belongs,” she said.
The organisation, which relies solely on donations for support, accepts both one-off gifts, and multi-year contributors through its ‘Dream Maker Society’, for people who commit to donate over at least five years.
For more information on donating to Inclusion Cayman go to the organisation’s website.
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