In a statement released today:
In the six years since, the [Bubel Aiken]Foundation has established itself as a leading voice for inclusion working with a “Who’s Who” list of youth organizations – YMCAs, Best Buddies International, Boys & Girls Clubs, CampFire USA, 4H, the ARC – as well as many other local parks and recreation departments, community centers, and privately-run programs. The Foundation has formed partnerships with Johns Hopkins University’s National Center for Summer Learning, the University of Massachusetts-Boston’s Center for Social Development and Education, the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability, the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration, and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center.
In 2008, both of the Foundation’s cutting edge inclusion models – Let’s ALL Play and the K-12 Inclusive Service Learning Program – were closely evaluated with overwhelmingly positive results. Children with and without disabilities in these programs saw growth in motor skills, social skills, and self-esteem, and the impact of the friendships made will last long into the future.
In six years, the Foundation has worked with hundreds of programs, trained numerous staff members and leaders, and provided inclusive opportunities for over 20,000 children. This far-reaching impact would not have been possible without the dedicated support of countless volunteers and supporters. With your help in raising awareness and funds through projects like Wrapping for Inclusion and Change for Change as well as local fund-raising efforts like cookbooks, gatherings, and online donation drives, the Foundation has dedicated the vast majority of every dollar into making an impact with our programs. As we realized the impact the Foundation has already made, it became apparent that even bigger accomplishments could be on the horizon. To that end, we along with the rest of the Board decided that a new name for the Foundation would establish long-term credibility and stability. We sought a name that would signify the Foundation’s position as a national leader on inclusion as well as recognize the Foundation’s start and the efforts of its faithful supporters. After much thought and deliberation, we are proud to introduce the organization we co-founded as the National Inclusion Project.
The National Inclusion Project is poised to continue to make an impact with thousands of children nationwide as well as raise the national consciousness about the need for and benefits of inclusion. We are excited beyond measure to see Clay’s original “project” become one that so many people have invested time, energy, and dollars in to see doors opened for children who may have never gotten the opportunity to participate in life the way their peers do. The National Inclusion Project is moving forward hand-in-hand with supporters, families, program providers, and other advocates to see the vision of full inclusion nationwide become a reality. Please join us in our push to make a difference in communities all over the country.
National Inclusion Project Website
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I am incredibly proud of Clay and the work his foundation does. deya(Quote)
Thank you for this information. It’s wonderful to hear how this foundation has grown and also all that Clay Aiken has worked to accomplish in six years.
It’s a great story! Jane(Quote)
Thank you for posting the information about the new name for Clay Aiken’s foundation. I sure do admire this young man, and I love to read the news stories about his “making a difference” ventures. Gina(Quote)
That young man is not just a singer – he is so much more. God watch over the foundation and the wonderful people in this dream. Janie(Quote)
It really warms my heart to see Clay and Diane’s dream come to fruition. I am so proud of the foundation. whatavoice(Quote)
Clay Aiken is – always was and always will be – the real deal and a true American Idol.
He said he wanted to make a difference in the lives of others, and his humanitarian efforts for the children of this country and in others have certainly proven that he’s true to his word.
Kudos and congratulations to him, to Diane Bubel, and to all the other dedicated staff of National Inclusion Project. Here’s to many more years of making a difference with all your good work. Anne(Quote)
Great article. Glad to see Clay Aiken’s charity organization, continues moving forward in a positive way. Linny(Quote)
Congratulations goes to Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel for all of their amazing work.
Thanks for posting this. It is very exciting! Jan(Quote)
Congrats to Clay & Diane !! How proud they must be! Imagine seeing a college project not only become a reality but a huge success as well!
Good job Clay!! ncgran4clay(Quote)
Clay Aiken is not only a great entertainer, but he is also a great humanitarian.
Bravo Clay for all you do for the children! Llana(Quote)
I have nothing but respect and admiration for Clay Aiken and all of the good work he has done. As far as I am concerned, he is the best thing to ever come off American Idol. I know that the show was looking to find pop stars, but what a bonus they got with Clay. Not only did they get a star, they also got a real humanitarian who has made a huge difference in the lives of so many children.
Congratulations–Clay and Diane!!!! All of your fans are justifiably proud and happy to support you. RIFAN(Quote)
Thank you Clay, Diane, and all the staff for making a difference. The name chang just flows off the tounge. Congratulations on a job well done so far and wishes for continued success. Gayle(Quote)
The new name really does reflect the mission of the foundation. Best wishes to all concerned who have made the Nation Inclusion Project so successful! Bonnie(Quote)
Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel are to be commended on their amazing foundation! They have changed so many childrens’ lives forever. Some have had their first camp experience ever. They are helping children make lasting friends and memories!!! Wonderful people, wonderful cause! PaulaBear(Quote)
A big congratulations to Clay Aiken, Diane Bubel and the rest of the staff at National Inclusion Project.
Clay said from the very beginning that he wanted to make a difference and he certainly has.
Thank you for the great article! Karma(Quote)
I love the new name, National Inclusion Project. It accurately reflects the work Clay’s charity is doing so effectively. KUDOS, Clay! Keep up the good work! claniac24(Quote)
Congratulations to Clay, Diane, and all the staff for making the lives of many kids better. Marty(Quote)
Congratulations to Clay and all those involved with the Foundation. They should all be very proud of themselves for all the work they’ve done and will continue to do.
Congrats to all. Sharon(Quote)
Clay Aiken is first and foremost a humanitarian. He cares about the children of the world. Hannah(Quote)
What an interesting story. Thank you! Chris(Quote)
Wonderful news! How amazing to start a foundation as part of your college class and have it turned into this 6 years later?! Bravo Clay Aiken! luluasst(Quote)