In a world that’s always moving fast, labeling quicker, and too often overlooking the obvious, maybe we’ve been looking for solutions in all the wrong places. We draft corporate DEI statements, sit through hours of training, and plaster buzzwords across campaigns yet the needle barely moves.

But what if it’s simpler than that?

What if real change—lasting, human, meaningful change—starts with something way more personal? Like how you greet your neighbor. Or how you speak to the barista. Or how you react when someone’s different from you.

Let’s get one thing straight: real inclusion isn’t a strategy. It’s a choice. A daily one. And it starts with each of us.

The Truth? We Don’t Need Another 40-Page DEI Plan

We need a compass. A simple guide. A reminder of what actually matters.
So, here it: a no-fluff, no-jargon, 3-step playbook for building a more inclusive, compassionate world. No executive approval required.

Step 1: Treat People Fairly (Not Just Equally)

Equality and fairness aren’t the same—and this is where many folks get stuck.

• Equality says: “Everyone gets the same thing.”
• Fairness says: “Everyone gets what they need to thrive.”

Think about it. If someone can’t access a building because there’s no ramp, giving everyone the same door doesn’t help. Real access means different supports for different people. And that’s not preferential treatment; it’s human decency.

So instead of aiming for identical, aim for intentional:

• Ask what people need.
• Offer accommodations without hesitation.
• Advocate when you see unfairness.

Inclusion doesn’t mean handing out participation trophies. It means creating real opportunities for everyone to succeed—especially those society often leaves behind.

Step 2: See the Person, Not the Label

Here’s a truth bomb: a diagnosis isn’t a destiny.

We’ve gotten way too comfortable reducing people to their labels:

• “Autistic.”
• “Disabled.”
• “Special needs.”
• “Down syndrome.”

These might offer context, but they don’t define capability, value, or worth. Every person is a complex, vibrant mix of experiences, dreams, talents, and quirks. See that first.

It sounds simple, but ask yourself:
When you meet someone new, what do you really see first? Their wheelchair? Their stutter? Or their smile? Their curiosity? Their kindness?

Let’s shift from:

• Label-first thinking → to → Human-first seeing

Because when we look past the chart, the diagnosis, or the perceived “limitation,” that’s when we make room for real connection.

Step 3: Celebrate, Don’t Just Tolerate, Differences

Here’s the thing: we’re not all the same and thank goodness for that.

If everyone thought the same, looked the same, or moved through the world the same, it’d be a pretty boring planet. Diversity isn’t a problem to be solved; it’s a strength to be leaned into.

Whether it’s race, disability, neurodivergence, gender identity, language, or background, diversity creates resilience. It expands our thinking, deepens our empathy, and makes our communities stronger.

So let’s move past passive “acceptance” and step boldly into celebration:

• Invite different voices to the table.
• Listen more than you talk.
• Celebrate cultural, cognitive, and physical diversity out loud.

And no, it’s not about being “woke.” It’s about being aware, awake, and active.

What This Looks Like in Real Life: Meet Nicole Adler

If you’re wondering, “Okay, but who’s really doing this?” — meet Nicole Adler.

Nicole isn’t just talking about change. She is the change. As a motivational speaker and fierce equal rights advocate, Nicole shines a spotlight on inclusion in action. She doesn’t just preach love and acceptance; she lives it.

And here’s the mic-drop moment:
Nicole has Down syndrome. And instead of letting society limit her, she’s flipping the script.

She’s teaching audiences across the country that:

• Love is revolutionary.
• Kindness is power.
• Inclusion is a verb.

This Down Syndrome Awareness Month, go beyond “awareness.” Be part of the action. Nicole will be speaking live on November 1 at 3 PM—a can’t-miss event for anyone who cares about building a better world.

Reserve your free seat now at elevateeveryvoice.com — but heads-up, space is limited.

🗓 Save the Date: January 31, 2026

What if one glamorous night could spark real change?
That’s exactly the idea behind Aces, Access & Advocacy—a dazzling 1920s-themed casino night benefiting Las Trampas.

On Saturday, January 31, 2026, we’re cranking up the jazz, rolling out the red carpet, and bringing the sparkle and sass of the Roaring ’20s back to life. Flapper dresses, fedoras, card tables, and cocktails. It’s all happening, and it’s all for something bigger than any jackpot.

Why This Night Matters

Since 1958, Las Trampas has been a powerful advocate for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them live independently, confidently, and with dignity.

This event isn’t just a trip back in time. It’s a celebration of inclusion, a toast to empowerment, and a fundraiser that fuels the programs making it all possible.

Every hand played, every chip dropped, and every cheer at the table helps move us closer to a world where everyone has the chance to shine.

What to Expect

Step into a venue transformed into a 1920s dream, where glam meets generosity and every detail feels like a scene from The Great Gatsby. Guests can look forward to:

• Casino-style card tables (friendly stakes, of course!)
• Signature cocktails and indulgent bites
• Dressed-to-impress 1920s fashion—think feathers, fringe, fedoras, and flair
• A night that gives back—every dollar raised supports Las Trampas programs for adults with disabilities

Here’s How to Join the Fun

📆 Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026

Formal invites and ticket info are coming soon but for now, add this to your calendar and start planning your best Gatsby-era getup!

Want to go all in? We’d love to have you as a sponsor. Connect with us at fundraising@lastrampas.org to explore sponsorship options and see how your business or organization can make a lasting impact.

Leave Your Mark on a Night to Remember

Aces, Access & Advocacy isn’t just a party; it’s a statement. It’s your chance to stand for inclusion, to advocate for access, and to be part of a legacy that’s been building since 1958.

So, dust off those pearls. Shine those shoes. And get ready to party like it’s 1926—with purpose.

In today’s fast-moving world, it’s easy for the most important voices to get lost in the noise. Voices that hold truth, vulnerability, resilience, and insight—voices that, when elevated, have the power to move communities forward.

Las Trampas, a trusted East Bay nonprofit that has been championing inclusion and empowerment for over 60 years, is making sure those voices are not only heard but celebrated.

Their new initiative, Elevate Every Voice, is a transformational three-part speaker series built on one core belief: when we listen deeply, we learn how to lead inclusively.

This fall, community members, educators, advocates, and neighbors are invited to take part in a series that promises to challenge, inspire, and connect all through the lens of lived experience.

What Is Elevate Every Voice?

Elevate Every Voice is not your typical speaker series. This immersive experience invites attendees to engage with dynamic voices: individuals whose stories reflect a lifetime of advocacy, insight, and transformation. The series highlights the lived experiences of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as those who are building more equitable and responsive systems of support.

Each event is designed to ignite conversation around three themes:

• Advocacy in Action – exploring how lived experience drives real leadership
• Thinking in New Ways – celebrating neurodiversity and rethinking what inclusion means; and
• Systems That Listen – imagining schools, governments, and communities that truly center access and equity.

Hosted by Las Trampas, whose mission is to empower adults with developmental disabilities to live their best lives, this series is a natural extension of the organization’s lifelong work: making sure every individual has the tools, resources, and respect they deserve.

The Speakers: Wisdom, Experience, and Vision

Nicole Adler – November 1, 2025
A passionate self-advocate and communicator, Nicole brings her lived experience to the forefront in this opening event. Her message is about visibility, empowerment, and the real impact of being seen and heard. Her story is a call to action: to create communities that don’t just include—but invite.

Dr. Temple Grandin – March 27, 2026
One of TIME magazine’s most influential people and a globally recognized advocate for people with autism, Dr. Temple Grandin brings unmatched wisdom and compassion to the stage. Her voice has shaped how the world understands neurodiversity. At Elevate Every Voice, she’ll share how her own journey defied expectations and how embracing different ways of thinking can build better futures for everyone.

Dr. Rebecca (Becky) Nanyonjo – April 21, 2026
A leader in public health and social equity, Dr. Nanyonjo will close the series by examining the structures around us. How can we evolve systems to truly listen to the people they serve? How do we move from symbolic inclusion to systemic transformation? Her insights will leave you reflecting on your own role in building a better, more accessible community.

Why This Series Matters More Than Ever

We’re at a moment in time where people are hungry for connection—not just surface-level support, but real understanding. Elevate Every Voice offers just that: a chance to learn from the people whose experiences can reframe how we think about leadership, inclusion, access, and equity.

Whether you’re a teacher looking to better support students, a business leader working toward accessibility, or a neighbor who simply wants to be part of the solution—this series was made for you.

By attending, you’re not just learning; you’re participating in the creation of a more compassionate, informed, and inclusive community.

Show Up. Speak Up. Listen Deeply.

You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. You just need to be present.

Your attendance supports not only the voices on stage, but the mission of Las Trampas: to empower adults with developmental disabilities to live full, vibrant lives.

Every ticket purchased contributes directly to programming, services, and opportunities for individuals who continue to show the world what true resilience and capability look like.

Save the Date And Save Your Spot

The first event takes place on November 1, 2025, and seating is limited. If you’ve been looking for a way to make an impact or simply want to experience something meaningful and memorable, this is your moment.

Find out more and register for the first event at elevateeveryvoice.com

Come ready to listen. Come ready to learn. Come ready to elevate every voice especially the ones that matter most.

What if inclusion wasn’t just a goal, but something we live every day? At Las Trampas, inclusion isn’t a buzzword. It’s a promise, a practice, a way of being. And now is the time to make that promise real, for everyone.

Inclusion means more than access. It means dignity, belonging. It means no one has to ask, “Am I allowed here?” Because the answer is always yes.

Now is the time to move from awareness to action. To build communities where every story is heard, every voice lifted. Inclusion is not charity, it’s justice. And when it’s done right, everyone benefits. We’ve seen lives transform, barriers fall, potential rise. Now is the time to stand together, to celebrate differences, to lead with compassion. 

At Las Trampas, inclusion is who we are, and we know that when no one is left behind, we all move forward. Now is the time to be the change. Join us at lastrampas.org and help build a community where everyone belongs.

Inclusion isn’t just about opening doors; it’s about ensuring that everyone feels dignified and valued. The journey of inclusion at Las Trampas is about shifting from mere awareness to tangible action. It’s about creating spaces where every voice is heard and every story matters.

The Power of Inclusion

Inclusion is more than just access. It’s about dignity and belonging. At Las Trampas, the goal is to make sure no one ever feels the need to ask if they belong. The answer is always a resounding yes. This isn’t just a mission; it’s a movement toward justice. When inclusion is genuinely practiced, everyone benefits. Lives transform, barriers fall, and potential is unlocked.

Transforming Lives and Communities

The impact of embracing inclusion is profound. At Las Trampas, there is a commitment to building communities where differences are celebrated and compassion leads the way. Inclusion is not about charity; it’s about justice and equity. The transformation seen in individuals and communities alike is a testament to the power of inclusive practices.

A Call to Action

Now is the time to act. The call to join Las Trampas in their mission is an invitation to become part of a community where everyone belongs. By standing together, celebrating differences, and leading with compassion, we can create a world that moves forward with no one left behind.

Inclusion is a journey, not a destination. It’s about being the change we wish to see in the world. At Las Trampas, inclusion is more than a goal; it’s a lived reality. Join the movement and help build a community where everyone feels they belong.

Imagine walking into a job interview and immediately being judged. Not by your resume or your experience, but by the way you move, communicate, or process information. Sounds unfair, right? Yet for millions of people with disabilities, this kind of bias isn’t a hypothetical. It’s daily life.

Despite decades of progress in workplace diversity and equal opportunity policies, people with disabilities continue to be systemically underrepresented in the workforce. As we observe Workforce Development Month this September, it’s time we ask: Why are people with disabilities still so often overlooked when it comes to employment?

The Employment Gap Is Still Staggering

Let’s start with the numbers because they paint a sobering picture.

• In 2024, only 22.7% of people with disabilities were employed, compared to 65.5% of those without a disability.
• The unemployment rate for people with disabilities was 7.5%, nearly double the 3.8% unemployment rate for their non-disabled peers.
• Among working-age adults, just 37.4% of people with disabilities had jobs, compared to over 75% of non-disabled individuals.

What’s behind these disparities? It’s not a lack of ambition, skills, or talent. It’s a system that hasn’t evolved to recognize and support different abilities.

It’s Not the Person. It’s the System

The hiring process itself often isn’t accessible:

• Job interviews tend to favor verbal fluency, eye contact, and neurotypical behavior.
• Work environments may lack ramps, adaptive tech, or sensory-friendly spaces.
• Bias and assumptions persist including assuming someone who needs accommodations can’t be as productive as their peers.

These aren’t just inconveniences. They’re barriers that keep qualified, eager individuals from participating fully in the workforce.

Disability Is Still Left Out of the Diversity Conversation

Many organizations proudly tout their diversity initiatives, but disability is often left out of the conversation. And when it is mentioned, it’s too often framed in a way that focuses on “inspiration” rather than contribution.

Let’s be clear: People with disabilities aren’t impressive just because they live with a disability. They’re impressive because they adapt, innovate, and thrive in systems not designed with them in mind.

• They’re problem-solvers.
• They’re creative thinkers.
• They’re loyal, resilient employees with strong work ethics and valuable perspectives.

And research backs this up.

Stats That Speak Volumes

Companies that prioritize disability inclusion see real returns on investment. A 2018 Accenture study, in partnership with the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and Disability:IN, found that:

• Companies leading in disability inclusion had 28% higher revenue.
• They also enjoyed 30% higher profit margins and two times the net income of their peers.
• These companies also had better employee retention and engagement rates.

So yes, inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s smart business.

How Employers Can Create Inclusive Workplaces

Building a truly inclusive workforce isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about shifting culture, processes, and mindsets. Here are a few actionable steps employers can take:

Make the Hiring Process Accessible

• Offer alternative formats for applications (audio, large print, screen-reader friendly).
• Provide interview accommodations—extra time, remote options, or questions in advance.

Train Your Hiring Teams

• Educate hiring managers on unconscious bias and inclusive practices.
• Normalize accommodations as a tool for success, not a burden.

Design for Accessibility

• Make physical spaces and digital tools accessible.
• Use universal design principles to create environments that work for everyone.

Partner With Local Organizations

• Collaborate with workforce development programs that support people with disabilities.
• Attend inclusive job fairs and events.

Real Inclusion Happens Year-Round but September Is a Great Start

September’s Workforce Development Month is a timely reminder: If we’re serious about creating a future of work where everyone belongs, we can’t keep sidelining people with disabilities.

Let’s not just celebrate workforce development; let’s redefine it. Inclusion is not about charity. It’s about justice. And more than that, it’s about recognizing that a truly innovative, dynamic workplace must reflect the full diversity of our communities.

Take Action: What You Can Do Right Now

Whether you’re an employer, HR professional, policymaker, or community member, your voice and actions matter. Here’s how you can contribute:

• Employers: Audit your hiring practices and physical spaces. Begin conversations about inclusion.
• Policymakers: Fund and promote workforce development programs that include people with disabilities.
• Community Advocates: Share this article. Raise awareness. Volunteer with inclusive employment organizations.
• Everyone: Learn more, ask questions, and keep showing up.

Workforce Development Means Everyone

Work is more than just a paycheck. It’s a path to purpose, identity, and belonging. People with disabilities deserve that opportunity just like anyone else.

At Las Trampas, we believe in building a world where everyone is included—not just in theory, but in everyday practice. We’re committed to reimagining a workforce where everyone gets to contribute, grow, and thrive.

The future of work doesn’t need to be rebuilt; it needs to be reimagined. And that future? It includes everyone.

At Las Trampas, we see disability differently. We don’t see limits. We see strength. Determination. Talent. And a community that deserves not just inclusion but celebration.

Disability Pride Month is a reminder that disability is a natural part of the human experience—and every person deserves the dignity, opportunity, and support to live their fullest life.

For more than 65 years, Las Trampas has walked alongside people with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families—helping them achieve independence, thrive in their communities, and pursue their dreams.

This month and every month, we invite you to:

• Celebrate the achievements of people with disabilities.
• Challenge stereotypes and barriers.
• Commit to building a world where everyone belongs.

Together, we can create a community where pride isn’t just a word—it’s a way of life.
Learn more about how Las Trampas is making inclusion real: https://lastrampas.org/about-us/history/

#DisabilityPrideMonth #LasTrampas #InclusionMatters #CelebrateDifference #WeBelongHere

A heartfelt thank you to the California Foundation for Stronger Communities (CFSC) for their generous donation to Las Trampas! This donation is essential for us to continue our mission of empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to discover their capabilities and lead full lives in their homes, at work, and in the community.

#nonprofit #impact #donate #funding #philanthropy #education

A grand time was had at our 2nd annual summer celebration at Board President’s Mark Mahaney’s home! It was a fun afternoon where our staff and board shared reasons why Las Trampas is important to our community, and ideas for more successful years to come. Thank you for having us Mark and Tammy Mahaney!

When Kate Hartline, one of our most beloved team members, announced her retirement from Las Trampas after 16 incredible years, I was a mess of emotions. While I’m thrilled for her to enjoy a well-earned next chapter, her absence will be felt deeply by participants, families, and staff. During her exit interview, Kate shared reflections and memories so moving that I knew I had to share them with you.

Kate joined Las Trampas, like many do, hoping for a job where she could give back — not just earn a paycheck. Back then, Direct Support Professionals for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities earned just $10 an hour, and still she chose this work. From her first day, it was clear: this was her calling. She brought energy, compassion, and leadership. She committed to high-quality, person-centered care. She refused to let our participants just be “parked” in front of a TV. Instead, she created opportunities for growth – even founding our first walking club when she recognized a need for more physical activity. I soon promoted Kate to Adult Day Program Supervisor, confident she would inspire other staff to lead with the same passion and focus.

And she did just that. When Danny joined our day program, staff were told that he would never speak. But Las Trampas doesn’t accept “never” for an answer. Jeff Dollar, a long-time staff member, worked with Danny daily, encouraging him to say “hi, how are you?” They would walk along our beautiful trail, and every time they came upon another person, Jeff would encourage Danny to say, “hi, how are you?” The first time Kate heard Danny say, “hi, how are you?” the pride in his eyes moved Kate to tears. “Seeing participants achieve their goals is one of the best feelings in the world” she shared.

Kate vividly remembers her first interview at Las Trampas, when a participant named John ran up to greet her. Upon returning for a second interview, John recognized her instantly and exclaimed, “You’re back!” From that moment, Kate knew she had found her place. “The folks that I’ve gotten to know here have changed my life,” she shared. “Las Trampas participants are the most resilient, determined folks I’ve ever known. They face enormous challenges, but they never stop striving. During my time here, I went through a lot personally, and their strength inspired me to keep going when I was at my lowest.”

When asked what she would miss most, Kate didn’t hesitate: “Morning arrivals. That burst of joy when the buses pull up — it’s the best part of the day. Some participants even come in sick because they don’t want to miss out. That’s how I know we’re doing something right.”

Kate takes immense pride in Las Trampas’ status as a premier program. People would call her and say, “Las Trampas is the only place we want our child to go.” This is a reputation only made possible by donors like you. Our top-notch staff and state-of-the-art facility are game changers, but there’s still more to do. We need speech-generating devices, and access to occupational and physical therapy — tools that unlock independence and dignity for the people we serve. As Kate put it: “We can always do more. We can always do better.”