AHA Center for Health Innovation Market Scan
Spaulding Rehabilitation Network - Differing Abilities Disability Awareness Program
Since 2003, the Differing Abilities Disability Awareness Program has helped children develop mutual respect for people with disabilities by fostering a greater understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and creating a more inclusive environment. The program teaches children and educators that all people have different abilities and the importance of including peers with disabilities in everyday activities. Through small-group activities, reading personal stories and other educational tools, children learn to celebrate differences.
What is it?
Since 2003, the Differing Abilities Disability Awareness Program has helped children develop mutual respect for people with disabilities by fostering a greater understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and creating a more inclusive environment. The program teaches children and educators that all people have different abilities and the importance of including peers with disabilities in everyday activities. Through small-group activities, reading personal stories and other educational tools, children learn to celebrate differences.
Who is it for?
Children in Eastern Massachusetts.
Why do they do it?
More than 15 percent of students in Massachusetts public schools have a disability.
Impact
In 2013, the program reached 1,000 students and added one new middle school to the program. Feedback from teachers, students and parents has been overwhelmingly positive. For more information, click here.
Contact: Laura Kelly
Differing Abilities Program Director
Telephone: 508-872-2200
Email: lkelly5@partners.org
Contact: Oswald Mondejar
Senior Vice President, Mission & Advocacy
Telephone: 617-952-5882
Email: omondejar@partners.org
Related Resources
Guides/Reports
Other Resources
Advancing Health Podcast
Advancing Health Podcast
Advancing Health Podcast