The National Inclusion Project grew out of the relationship between Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel and Diane’s then 13-year-old son, Mike who had been diagnosed with autism.

Clay pursued a degree in special education from UNC-Charlotte. He completed an independent study project where he created a foundation that focused on providing the support system for recreational and educational programs around the country to open doors to children with disabilities that had thus far remained closed.  Both Diane and Clay realized that an organized effort could encourage and facilitate community inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.

This shared goal grew into reality on July 28, 2003. Since that time, the National Inclusion Project has established itself as a leading voice for inclusion.

The National Inclusion Project serves to bridge the gap that exists between young people with disabilities and the world around them. They partner with communities and inclusive programs creating awareness about the possibilities that inclusion can bring.

Many of you are aware that The National Inclusion Project is involved in the Facebook giving challenge done by Chase Community Giving. Over the weekend, some others had a surge in voting and they have fallen out of the top 200 and $20,000. (That’s 2 camps!)

They need your help, please. Pass this on, put on message boards, blogs, etc. If you have another charity you are voting for in the challenge, see if there’s a mutual voting relationship you can use. Creative, desperate, enthusiastic…whatever you have to be, it’s worth it. J

Here’s the process:
1. Click: http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/charities/200146446-bubel-aiken-foundation-inc
2. Make sure that you’ve hit “Like” at the top of the page for Chase.
3. Click the button to Vote.
4. Then click the button to Share on your Facebook wall.
5. Only one vote per person allowed.

The following  is one of the most beautiful videos I have seen on The National Inclusion Project.  You really need to watch this video.  If your heart doesn’t swell with pride for all that the National Inclusion Project has accomplished, or if you don’t immediately ask what you can do to help………..well………you get the point.  SueReu, you are some amazing lady.  Thank you for all you do for Clay and The National Inclusion Project.