Congratulations to The National Inclusion Project. It was announced that they received a $35,000 grant from the CVS Caremark Charitable Trust.  The CVS Caremark Charitable Trust has a budget of $6.3 million for grants that support causes including children with disabilities as well as nonprofits that provide health care services to the uninsured and medically at-risk populations.

The following information about this new grant is found on the National Inclusion Foundation web page.

Building on a three-year partnership, the National Inclusion Project and the National Summer Learning Association will create a distinct and powerful new force for change in the field of summer learning for all children, especially those with disabilities. The partners will expand access to high-quality inclusive summer learning opportunities for young people by developing a summer learning curriculum to help summer camps fully include youth with disabilities.  Research suggests that inclusive summer learning programs can prevent summer learning loss and promote academic achievement for all children and youth, foster positive relationships between children with and without disabilities and adults, and promote improved peer relationships and acceptance of diversity. “We are excited to partner with CVS Caremark to continue leading the way in creating inclusive opportunities for children nationwide,” said Clay Aiken, co-founder of the National Inclusion Project.

“In today’s challenging economy, it’s more important than ever to support organizations that can have a positive impact on children with disabilities,” said Eileen Howard Dunn, Vice President, CVS Caremark Charitable Trust. “We’re proud to support the National Inclusion Project and the wonderful services provided by their programs and we wish them continued success in 2010.”

The CVS Caremark Charitable Trust’s grant to the National Inclusion Project is part of $6.3 million in grants given to nonprofit organizations across the country in 2009. A number of these grants align with CVS Caremark All Kids Can, the company’s signature philanthropic program focused on supporting children with disabilities by raising awareness about inclusion, creating greater opportunities for physical activity and play, and providing access to medical rehabilitation and related services.

Other CVS Caremark Charitable Trust grants provide support for medical services for the uninsured, grants to pharmacy schools, scholarships for the children of CVS Caremark colleagues and funding for community organizations for which CVS Caremark colleagues act as volunteers.

There are so many ways that we can support The National Inclusion Project. This organization is an important part of life for Clay Aiken.  It has been amazing to watch it grow into the leader in the field of Inclusion.  At this time when money is tight for almost everyone, it is important that we look for innovative ways that we can support the Project.  It is always great and important to see corporate support so that many kids can be supported.

To learn more about the National Inclusion Project or ways to get involved, visit their Web site at www.inclusionproject.org.

The following are a few pictures of Clay attending the National Inclusion Project Galas.