Embracing Inclusion Award

The Embracing Inclusion Award is presented to a Parish, Catholic school, Catholic college or organization in the Archdiocese of Dubuque which advocates for inclusivity of persons with disabilities. Awards are presented for Best Program or Project for fuller inclusive participation in the life of the Catholic faithful, and Best Improvement to Property providing greater accessibility.

Bosco Catholic School System
Immaculate Conception/St. Joseph Catholic School
Gilbertville / Raymond, Iowa

Immaculate Conception/St. Joseph Catholic School in the Bosco Catholic School System was awarded the 2022 Embracing Inclusion Award for outstanding contributions in welcoming, advocating for, and providing inclusive instruction to persons with diverse abilities. Bosco Catholic School System has paved the way for students with special needs to receive a faith-based education. Supportive staff, students, and families provide a prayerful and inclusive environment where all feel safe, accepted, and valued. The school has also constructed a universally designed, inclusive playground for preschool students. The nomination for Immaculate Conception/St. Joseph Catholic School was submitted by Mrs. Shelby Douglas, Principal of Bosco Catholic School System. 

St. Patrick Parish - Clear Lake, Iowa

St. Patrick Parish in Clear Lake received the 2022 Embracing Inclusion Award for outstanding contributions in welcoming and providing for fuller inclusive participation in the life of persons with diverse abilities in the faith community. Each week, parish volunteers provide bus transportation to residents throughout the town, bringing them to church and making sure they safely get into and out of the church with ease. Each passenger is warmly welcomed as they arrive for Mass. Transportation is also provided for parish events. In addition, a person with special needs has taken on a role as a teacher's assistant in the Religious Education program at St. Patrick. The nomination for St. Patrick Parish was submitted by Terry Carlson.
 

Knights of Columbus Council #15813
St. Columbkille Parish - Dubuque, Iowa

Knights of Columbus Council #15813, St. Columbkille Parish in Dubuque was awarded the 2022 Embracing Inclusion Award for their generosity in sharing time and talents, and particularly for their involvement in the Putting Faith to Work initiative, which strives to meet the needs of persons with disabilities who are seeking employment. Council members coordinate the recruitment of local businesses to become aware of the abilities of persons with disabilities in the parish and local community, and to meet their need for employment. Through this initiative, faith community members have the opportunity to enhance the lives of people with disabilities, their families, and their community by helping them to find meaningful jobs, assume valued roles, and share their talents with others. The nomination for Knights of Columbus Council #15813 was submitted by Fr. Tom McDermott.