I recently published Transcending Labels: The Power of Connecting with the Special Needs and Disabled Communities. I worked on this for the better part of three years with the objective of spreading awareness around these communities. Throughout the process, I have become increasingly clearer on my vision, and this book is just phase one of executing it.
My broad mission is simple: help those less fortunate than me and inspire others to do the same. As it relates specifically to the special needs and disabled communities, I believe that it is my duty to give my time and energy as someone who was fortunate enough to be born with a typically-functioning brain and body.
How often do you hear the concept of “not taking things for granted?” Yet we all do it, myself included. When I spend time with people in these communities, the vast number of luxuries that I personally take for granted are highlighted. It has helped me become more present to my daily, God-given blessings, and to become more a person of gratitude each day. I cannot think of anything better than a mission that leads to a happier life for everyone involved.
How can you join the mission?
- Buy the book, read it, and decide from there if you feel compelled to take action/get involved in your community.
- Leave a review on Amazon. This helps get the book in front of more people, and ALL feedback is valuable! I am nowhere near perfect, and every time I meet someone who has been impacted by these communities, I learn something new. Please share your feedback with me– takeaways, positive actions you are committed to taking, topics I may have missed, and suggestions on how I can improve in communicating my message.
- Look into organizations such as Special Olympics, Best Buddies, or any others in your area that support people with special needs and/or disabilities. I’m willing to bet that they are actively in need of volunteers.
- If you have had the same type of positive experience that I have volunteering with these communities, share it with one person and encourage them to join you.
The process of building awareness happens one person, one event, one conversation at a time. My journey started almost 15 years ago with one friend inviting me to join him at an afterschool program. The result was a lifelong passion that continues to add value to my life every single day.
PS: “Phase Two” is delivering speeches for live audiences to spread this message. I am currently in the process of crafting the speech, but please do not hesitate to share opportunities for speaking engagements, too 🙂
