Embracing Inclusion Award

2024 Embracing Inclusion Award Recipients

Blessed Maria Assunta Pallotta Catholic Middle School
Waterloo, Iowa
Blessed Maria Assunta Pallotta Catholic Middle School in Independence was awarded the 2024 Embracing Inclusion Award for outstanding contributions in welcoming, advocating for, and providing inclusive instruction to children with diverse abilities. Blessed Maria has paved the way for students with greater needs to receive a faith-based education. Supportive staff, and students provide a prayerful and inclusive environment where all feel safe, accepted, and valued. The nomination for Blessed Maria Assunta Pallotta Catholic Middle School was submitted by the principal, Mr. Nick Miller.

St. Ludmila Parish
Cedar Rapids, IA
St. Ludmila Parish in Cedar Rapids received the 2024 Embracing Inclusion Award for outstanding contributions in welcoming and providing for fuller inclusive participation and accessibility to persons with diverse abilities in the faith community. The sanctuary of the parish is fully accessible for parishioners with accessibility challenges, allowing all parishioners the opportunity to participate fully in liturgical ministries. The new parish Community Center is also fully accessible, and is a welcoming space for all parishioners and the broader community. The Community Center has hosted "Triple Threat," an event to raise awareness for autism. This event featured safe spaces for individuals with autism and their families to play basketball and other games. The nomination for St. Ludmila Parish was submitted by Crystal Powers.

Sacred Heart Parish
Osage, IA
Sacred Heart Parish in Osage was awarded the 2024 Embracing Inclusion Award for its outstanding contributions in welcoming and providing for fuller inclusive participation of parishioners with disabilities, particularly in liturgical ministries. Parishioners with disabilities are involved in ministries such as the choir, sacristan duties, ushers, and greeters. The parishioners at Sacred Heart Parish are creating a happy and holy atmosphere of inclusion for all who gather there. The nomination for Sacred Heart Parish was submitted by Annette Uker.