As you read this, New Hope Board Member Sister Francine Brown, New Hope's Development Director Jenny Pfeil and I are about to give a presentation to the Mission and Ministry Impact Conference on Inclusion of People with Disabilities.  The theme of the conference is "Come to the Table," and we are thrilled and honored to share the New Hope story with the audience. And what a story it is!  It is a story of trailblazers working tirelessly for a seat at the table. It is a story of thousands of individuals with disabilities seeking justice at the table.  It is a story of a community dedicated to striving for a seat at the table for those with disabilities. 

When I think about New Hope, I am so grateful for all of you that have helped us gain a seat at the table!  Whether you have been a part of our New Hope family for 46 years or just a year! It takes our entire New Hope community for our organization to be successful and have a seat at the table, and we are grateful for everyone who is a part of #TeamNewHope. 

I am writing this column on July 26th, the thirty-fourth anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  In 1990, it was passed to prohibit discrimination based on a disability.  Although this law certainly helped reduce discrimination for individuals with disabilities, there is still much work to be done for us to have a full seat at the table.  One way we can reduce discrimination is by ensuring that people with disabilities are able to fully participate in their community.   

One of the ways we do this is through our mac-n-cheese food truck.  We are back and rolling this summer with three enthusiastic chefs!  If you would like to have us visit your place of employment M-W at lunch please contact Amanda Boyd, Director of Community Outreach, at aboyd@newhopeofindiana.org.  Amanda celebrates her first full month in this very important role at New Hope. Amanda follows Kathy Ballard, who retired in June.  Welcome Amanda!   

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not mention New Hope's sold-out Silver Cup Celebration on August 8th!  Thank you to Denise Irons, chair of our wonderful Silver Cup Committee, and our New Hope team headed by Jenny Pfeil.  This is going to be a great event, highlighting New Hope's Community Partners like One America, Levy Food Services, The Children's Museum, the Indiana Historical Society and the Indianapolis Public Library. I hope to see you there! 

Have a great end to your summer! 

Allison