Embracing Inclusion Award

Wahlert High School

Wahlert High School was awarded the Embracing Inclusion Award for Best Program or Project that promotes fuller inclusive participation in the life of the faithful. Wahlert is filled with supportive staff, students, and families who help to make Catholic education and employment opportunities possible for persons with disabilities by providing a prayerful and inclusive environment where all feel safe, accepted, and valued. Students with disabilities continue to be successfully integrated into Wahlert programs, building meaningful friendships and confidence that carries through graduation and successfully into the workforce. The nomination for Wahlert High School was submitted by Deacon Steve MacDonald, father of MacKenzie who works in the dietary services at Wahlert. The students and staff support MacKenzie and others to succeed, while challenging them to grow.

St. Wenceslaus Parish, Cedar Rapids

St. Wenceslaus Parish received the Embracing Inclusion Award for Best Improvement to Property, providing greater accessibility for the faithful. The parish has added a new addition to the existing church, which features an easily accessible parking lot, sidewalk, and entry. An elevator will now transport people to all four floors of the church, allowing parishioners with disabilities to participate in the Choir, and provides accessibility to the parish hall. Restrooms were designed for ease of access, and renovations also included floor to ceiling windows in the foyer and hallways, enhancing the view of the ever-growing district adjacent to the campus. The nomination for St. Wenceslaus Parish was submitted by Eric Oliver.