Strengthening Understanding of Disability Awareness
For many, interacting with individuals who have disabilities can feel unfamiliar or challenging, often due to a lack of awareness. To address this, the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities initiated a program featuring the Good Life Ambassadors (GLAs). This dedicated group of four individuals travels to schools and community events, sharing their experiences to show that people with disabilities share commonalities with everyone else, aiming to foster understanding and inclusion.
Advocating for Inclusion Through Personal Stories
The Good Life Ambassadors cover a wide range of topics, including the importance of integrating children with disabilities into everyday life and the appropriate way to interact with someone using a wheelchair. Breanna Sprenger, a 22-year-old GLA born without both legs and one arm, shares her personal journey to educate others about disability inclusion. She highlights how a wheelchair is more than just a mobility tool, explaining that respecting the user’s independence is essential.
During a recent visit to a Cleveland elementary school, Sprenger and her fellow GLAs led discussions on breaking down stereotypes about living with disabilities. Students were encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, which fostered an open dialogue and helped them understand the importance of inclusivity. Sprenger takes pride in watching these young people gain a deeper sense of empathy and respect, leaving the sessions with a clearer understanding of how to treat others with kindness and equality.
Additional Insightful Information
The mission of the Good Life Ambassadors goes beyond education—it seeks to inspire empowerment within the disability community. By challenging misconceptions and promoting respect, the GLAs are working to create a world where physical differences are not barriers to connection and understanding. Sprenger’s dedication and passion for raising awareness reflect the broader societal movement towards creating spaces where individuals of all abilities can thrive, promoting a future where everyone is embraced for who they are.