No matter what holiday you do or don’t celebrate, this season is usually a time of reflection. We make our wishes. We make our to-do lists. We consider our resolutions.

When we think about next year and the years to come, all we want is inclusion for people with disabilities.

Perhaps because it isn’t a material wish, this seems like a big ask. But is it? Throughout our lives, we've seen the goodwill and intentions of so many people and communities. After Cole's spinal cord injury in 2011 and through our advocacy on social media for disability rights, we have had the privilege of listening to countless stories from disabled people, and we've heard many different ideas that paint a very attainable vision for the future. That’s why we’re writing to you today, and it is why we support Easterseals’ mission toward full inclusion, equity, and access for people with disabilities.

For Easterseals, inclusion means providing on-the-ground supports for people with disabilities, like healthcare and employment services so we can thrive in our communities.

For us, inclusion also means advocating in Washington, D.C. to ensure the issues vital to disabled people are front and center.

What would happen if all of us who wish for inclusion in the new year took even the smallest action in that direction? You can start today with a small donation before 2024 begins.

We all have a vision of what could be possible. Storytelling brings those visions to life, and it is a powerful tool. For this reason, we’re passionate about our work through our YouTube channel, social media, and disability advocacy, using storytelling as an important agent for change. This work brings up a series of important questions.

What story are we telling our communities about the future? What stories are we telling about ourselves? What stories do you see about people with disabilities in your community? How does that impact you or those you care about?

These questions matter. If we had seen and heard stories from people with disabilities earlier, and had seen communities come together for the common good and share our wish for a more inclusive and accessible world, maybe we wouldn’t feel so alone.

Imagine if we started today to make this vision a reality — even if it’s just sharing with your friends and family that you want more inclusion in the new year. Give today and let people know about Easterseals’ work and how they can help, too. Share authentic perspectives and stories directly from people with disabilities.

Let’s write new stories of access and inclusion in 2024 together.

Signed,

Cole and Charisma Sydnor