Nonprofit Spotlight: Understanding Our Differences

In the United States, one in four people have a disability. Yet there is often a lack of awareness and education about disabilities. Local nonprofit Understanding Our Differences fills this gap with programs that educate children and communities to respect, include and empower people of all abilities. Through school programs and community outreach, the organization promotes its vision of a world of inclusivity from childhood through adulthood where all individuals with disabilities can thrive.

What They Do

The organization’s school programs are grounded in the belief that children are naturally curious about differences, and that accurate information can make the difference between acceptance and discrimination. Taught by educators, staff and trained volunteer instructors from within each community, school programs are designed to fit into a typical K-12 curriculum. They include information about a range of physical, sensory and developmental disabilities, hands-on activities, and opportunities to learn from, and connect with, guest speakers with disabilities.

In addition to school programs, Understanding Our Differences conducts a range of community outreach to foster respect and inclusion for people of all abilities. Through activities such as family book events, library programs, film screenings and participation at community fairs, the organization promotes disability awareness and empowers and celebrates people of all abilities. 

Their Impact

Founded in 1978 by a group of parents of children with disabilities in Newton, Massachusetts, the organization’s disability awareness curriculum has grown over the years both in the range of topics covered and in the number of schools and youth. In Newton alone, over 50,000 students have participated in its program since its inception. The organization has helped students develop lasting attitude changes, which they take with them as they move through their schooling and into work and community life as adults. As a result of participating, students exhibit inclusive behavior, increased empathy, and improved social skills, leading to a better school climate for all.

Learn more about Understanding Our Differences at https://understandingourdifferences.org.