We believe that all individuals who are qualified and want to serve their community should have the opportunity to do so. The Utah Commission on Volunteers (COV) believes that Everyone Can Serve and we are committed to engaging and supporting individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, in service to their communities. It is our goal to enlarge the scope of awareness in order to educate communities and increase the involvement of volunteers across our state.
More volunteer opportunities are available now than ever before and people with disabilities are joining the world of service in increasing numbers. The AmeriCorps Disability Outreach and Accommodations Grant, provides, upon request, reasonable accommodations and services necessary to afford an individual with a disability an equal opportunity to participate in all national service programs and activities. Volunteers are everywhere and can be anyone willing to sacrifice their time and service for others. People with disabilities are seeing needs in their communities and they are contributing to creating a better world for everyone. They are committed individuals, willing and able to serve and dedicated to the call.
Whether it is mentoring youth,teaching children to read, repairing trails, helping seniors remain independent in their homes, or increasing public safety awareness, people with disabilities are making a difference and making a huge impact in communities through AmeriCorps service opportunities. By including persons with disabilities in service opportunities, we are making a difference and raising the awareness of the power of service. We can be inclusive of all citizens and unite to form a better world for all. If we are creative in our thinking, we can turn inabilities into abilities.
The COV and AmeriCorps are committed to the inclusion of qualified individuals regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, marital status, or disability. Utah has a disability council to work with programs, disability organizations, colleges and universities, and the larger disability community, to spread the word about AmeriCorps and ensure that Utah’s AmeriCorps programs are as inclusive as possible. Utah’s AmeriCorps programs should reflect the rich diversity that makes up the communities they serve!
If you are someone with a disability who has more questions about serving in one of Utah’s AmeriCorps programs feel free to contact the COV at 888-755-8824 or email: ldstoddard@utah.gov.