The Full Community Inclusion Award is presented annually to one organization that promotes full inclusion of individuals who experience intellectual and developmental disabilities in their communities. 

The award recipient is chosen on the agency’s continued ability to fight for community-based supports; for their commitment to empowering local communities in fully including individuals who experience developmental disabilities; for serving as an inspiration for other community efforts at the local, state, national and/or international levels; and for respecting and responding to local cultural issues regarding disabilities.

Since 1876, the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) has been providing worldwide leadership in the field of mental retardation. AAIDD is the oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization of professionals and citizens concerned about intellectual and developmental disabilities.

 “Hope is honored to receive this award from such a prestigious organization as AAIDD.  They are ‘the’ professional organization on disabilities, and to be recognized for our efforts of full inclusion is humbling,” states Hope’s Executive Director, Steve Lesko.  He continues to say “These are two powerful words, ‘full inclusion,’ which should be the foundation for every service provider.  Receiving the award is an external way of saying we’re going in the right direction, and it fuels the agency to be better than we are now.”

AAIDD prides themselves as tireless promoters of progressive policies, sound research, effective practices and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

With a membership over 5,000 strong in the United States and in 55 countries worldwide, AAIDD is the oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization of professionals and citizens concerned about intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Hope Community Resources wishes to extend a huge thank you to all of the businesses and community members who supported this year's Walk & Roll for Hope in Mat-Su and Anchorage and the statewide virtual Walks.  Because of everyone's involvement, proceeds from these events stand at over $68,000 and continue to increase as more pledges are made and turned in.

The Mat-Su Walk & Roll, which was held Saturday, April 10 at the Curt Menard Center in Wasilla, was the first indoor Walk & Roll for Hope we've held.  It was a small gathering of people, but a whole lot of fun.  Approximately 50 people turned out to see who could make the most laps around the track in an hour's time.  The competition was fierce, but good natured.  Afterwards participants were treated to a whole menu of snacks and beverages, while the prizes were awarded.

In Anchorage, Saturday, May 1 brought a little chill in the air, but not enough to keep Walk participants from showing up at the Park Strip in order to hit the trails for the 41st Walk & Roll for Hope.  This year's event took on a special meaning, as it was dedicated to Lauren, a little girl who passed away earlier this year.  Her family and friends banned together to form the For the Love of Lauren Team in remembrance of Lauren and as a thank you to Hope for the support they provided the family during her time on earth.

Although the Mat-Su and Anchorage Walk & Rolls for Hope have occurred, community members still have time to participate in virtual Walks being offered in each of the regions Hope supports.

Photos of the 2010 event.