Utilizing Courage to Eliminate Barriers Towards Inclusion with Bill Volkmann

Описание: Inclusive perseverance is a collaborative and patient approach to overcoming obstacles. It involves individuals working together to bridge differences, embrace diverse perspectives, and ensure that no one is left behind in pursuit of a common goal. This concept combines a dedication to staying committed to a task despite challenges (perseverance) with a commitment to creating a respectful, equitable, and welcoming environment for everyone (inclusion).

Bill Volkmann is the founder of Empower Your Courage, a social media and technology company dedicated to achieving full inclusion for people with disabilities. His goal is to bridge the gap between technology companies and the disability community. Bill was the first student with an intellectual or developmental disability to attend New Jersey public schools after the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law. He has cerebral palsy, and his parents instilled in him the belief that, despite having a disability, he was no different from anyone else. Growing up, Bill was passionate about baseball. Playing and watching the sport connected him with his classmates who did not have disabilities, helping them see who he truly was. Bill will be publishing a book in the upcoming year about his incredible life story.

I have overcome many challenges in my life, starting with being born with cerebral palsy due to a traumatic brain injury. I transitioned from a special needs school to becoming the first student with an intellectual or developmental disability to attend public school after the ADA was passed. Baseball has always been a significant part of my life; I have both played and watched it, and I love sports in general. My mother was a caregiver for me and for my father, who had multiple sclerosis. I have experienced the loss of my parents and my older sister, who played a significant role in taking care of me. Throughout my life, I have moved all over the country, and for the past few years, I have been living in San Diego. Initially, I didn't know anyone here, but now I have made many friends. I have not only founded my own company but am also becoming an advocate for disabilities at the state and federal levels.

Follow me on Instagram: @william_volkmann