Throughout my experience in Inclusion U, I have gained a much deeper understanding of what true inclusion means, particularly in the context of recreation and community spaces. While I had a general awareness of accessibility and equity before this course, I now realize that inclusion goes beyond simply allowing people to participate—it’s about creating environments where everyone feels a sense of belonging, engagement, and success.
As someone working in the nonprofit sector in Des Moines, Iowa, I see firsthand how community programs can either break down barriers or unintentionally exclude individuals based on ability, economic background, or cultural differences. This course challenged me to critically analyze recreation and community spaces through a Universal Design lens, encouraging me to consider not just physical accessibility but also social and sensory inclusion. My biggest takeaway from Inclusion U is that inclusion must be intentional—it doesn’t just happen naturally. It requires thoughtful planning, awareness, and a willingness to adapt programs and environments to meet the needs of all participants.
Understanding Universal Design and its Impact
One of the most impactful parts of the course was learning about Universal Design (UD). Before this, I primarily associated accessibility with ramps, elevators, and ADA compliance, but I now understand that UD is about designing spaces and programs that work for everyone, without the need for adaptation or specialized accommodations.
For example, one concept that really resonated with me was Perceptible Information—the idea that information should be communicated in multiple ways so that all individuals, regardless of ability, can understand it. I immediately thought about how nonprofit organizations in Des Moines communicate with the public. Many rely on written materials or websites, but what about individuals with low vision, language barriers, or cognitive disabilities? Simple changes like using pictograms, verbal instructions, and easy-to-read formats could make a huge difference in ensuring that information reaches a broader audience.
Another key principle of Universal Design that stood out to me was “Flexibility in Use.” This principle emphasizes that spaces and programs should accommodate a wide range of abilities and preferences. In my work with nonprofits, I often see organizations planning community events that assume everyone will engage in the same way. But what if someone needs extra time to complete an activity? What if a participant benefits from visual instructions or a quiet space to regroup? These small but significant considerations can determine whether someone feels comfortable participating or excluded.
Recreation as a Tool for Community Building
One of my favorite parts of Inclusion U was the emphasis on recreation as a tool for community building. Recreation programs, whether they’re summer camps, sports leagues, or public parks, provide some of the most organic opportunities for inclusion—but only if they are designed with intentionality.
The concept of the Continuum of Inclusion was particularly eye-opening. The three levels—Physical Inclusion, Functional Inclusion, and Social Inclusion—helped me understand that just because someone has access to a space doesn’t mean they are truly included.
- Physical Inclusion ensures that individuals can enter a space, but what happens once they’re inside?
- Functional Inclusion means they can actively participate, but are they truly engaged?
- Social Inclusion is the deepest level, where participants form relationships, feel valued, and belong.
This framework made me think about how nonprofits in Des Moines plan events and services. Are we unintentionally stopping at physical inclusion, assuming that if someone is in the room, they are benefiting from the program? Or are we taking steps to ensure functional and social inclusion, where individuals actively engage, contribute, and build connections?
Applying Inclusion U Lessons to Nonprofit Work
As I reflect on my learning, I see multiple ways to apply Inclusion U principles to nonprofit work in Des Moines. A few key strategies I plan to implement include:
Improving Communication & Outreach
- Ensuring that event flyers, websites, and social media posts use plain language, visuals, and multiple formats to reach diverse audiences.
- Partnering with interpreters or community liaisons to ensure language accessibility for non-English speakers.
- Incorporating video captions and audio descriptions to make digital content more inclusive.
Creating More Inclusive Community Events
- Encouraging event organizers to provide multiple ways to participate (e.g., sensory-friendly options, structured and unstructured activities, and rest areas).
- Training staff and volunteers on person-centered approaches so they focus on what participants CAN do rather than their limitations.
- Using Universal Design elements to ensure activities are welcoming for people of all abilities.
Promoting Inclusive Recreational Spaces
- Assessing parks and public spaces to identify barriers to inclusion beyond just physical access (e.g., social stigma, lack of inclusive programming, or untrained staff).
- Advocating for playgrounds and public spaces that incorporate sensory play, diverse representation, and age-inclusive design.
- Encouraging organizations to embrace adaptive recreation and create programs that allow everyone to participate together rather than in separate “specialized” activities.
Final Reflection: Inclusion as an Ongoing Commitment
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that inclusion is not a one-time effort—it’s a continuous process. Every program, event, or public space should be regularly evaluated and adapted to meet the evolving needs of the community.
This course has helped me shift my mindset from "How do we accommodate individuals with disabilities?" to "How do we design experiences that are inclusive for everyone from the start?" That shift is crucial because it moves beyond compliance and charity toward true equity and belonging.
As I move forward in my career in the nonprofit sector, I will carry these lessons with me and use them to advocate for a more inclusive Des Moines—where everyone, regardless of ability, feels welcome and valued in the spaces and programs meant to serve the entire community.
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