Written by Lauren Smith, Director of Community Engagement at Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center and VYP Board Member
In late 2018, I relocated from the Midwest to Arizona, marking my first time living in another state. During my job search, I prioritized finding an organization that values diverse perspectives and recognizes the important contributions of each employee. I knew I wanted to work for a company that fosters inclusivity and empowers individuals to be their authentic selves in the workplace.
In January 2019, I joined Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) as the Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager. Now, nearly six years later as Director of Community Engagement and a mother of a child with autism, my work at SARRC and passion for the mission has deeply shaped my understanding of what true inclusion means and the crucial role of inclusive leadership.
SARRC is a trailblazer in autism research and services. While similar programs supporting individuals with autism exist throughout Maricopa County, Arizona, and the United States, SARRC is one of only a few known nonprofit organizations nationally providing a lifetime of services for individuals and their families while also conducting its own independent and cutting-edge research.
At SARRC, inclusion is central to everything we do. We create opportunities for children with autism to engage alongside their typically developing peers at the Community School, SARRC’s inclusive preschool program. Our blended classroom environment allows children with and without autism to play, grow, and learn together. We also offer training on inclusive practices to community partners, helping them provide accessible summer camp programs for all youth. We offer experiences for teens with autism to volunteer alongside peer mentors at local nonprofit organizations, libraries, and other community settings. In addition, SARRC partners with local employers and businesses that are committed to hiring individuals with autism. Through these initiatives, SARRC is dedicated to building and empowering inclusive communities from the ground up.
Being immersed daily in our inclusive programs for individuals with autism, as well as their families and the broader community, has significantly contributed to my development as an inclusive leader. Through these experiences, I have learned that inclusive leadership is rooted in empathy, respect, open-mindedness, curiosity, and authenticity. It also involves valuing and embracing diverse perspectives as well as creating an environment where all voices are heard and appreciated.
Melinda Gates has said, “If we want to include everyone, we have to help everyone develop their talents and use their gifts for the good of the community. That is what inclusion means– everyone contributes.”
My time at SARRC has taught me that inclusion is not a destination, but an ongoing, continuous journey. As leaders, it is important to recognize and develop the strengths and talents of our employees, not only to benefit our organizations but also to create a long-term, positive and profound impact on a broader scale. By fostering an inclusive environment, we empower individuals to contribute their exceptional abilities, resulting in organizational growth and the creation of more supportive communities that embrace inclusion.
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