Vision
We strive for universal supports that value equity, dignity, and independence for all people.
Mission
To support individuals with disabilities and their families through advocacy, ensuring greater access to inclusion opportunities in education and fostering development of self-determination.
Values
Education – Advocacy – Inclusion
Founded in the strong belief that if something is worth fighting for my own child, it’s worth fighting for other children.
As educational philosopher and progressive reformer John Dewey (1859-1952) stated: “What the best and wisest parent wants for his child, that must we want for all the children of the community. Anything less is unlovely, and left unchecked, destroys our democracy.”
The World Health Organization states that disability is a “continuum, relevant to the lives of all people to different degrees and at different times in their lives.” Disability is a universal phenomenon and a natural feature of the human condition. We support and uphold the dignity of all people. We view dignity as the right to be valued, respected, and treated ethically.
A2IDEAS champions:
- Education
- Advocacy
- Inclusion
Education: A2IDEAS believes that education is the foundation of a strong and just society. It is through experience as education that we develop and reach our potential. “Education is not preparation for life. Education is life itself. Education, therefore, is a process of living and not a preparation for future living.” -John Dewey.
Advocacy: A2IDEAS recognizes that advocacy – the act of pleading the cause of another; defending or maintaining a cause or proposal; supporting or promoting the interests of a cause or group – can take many forms and serve many functions. This endeavor on behalf of our organization comes from a place of recognizing that advocacy is pertinent across all areas of life, but with respect to disability rights, it has an added significance.
Inclusion: A2IDEAS views inclusion as a value, a practice, and a process that is rooted in justice. The work of our organization is guided by inclusion and operates in the realm of breaking down barriers. Many of the barriers that exist are a result of systems and structures in place. Additionally, barriers exist as assumptions, incorrect notions, implicit biases, and discriminatory practices of those who are part of these systems and structures. An element of our work is the intentional action of dismantling the existing barriers of exclusion while enhancing and promoting inclusive principles.