Ashley Glears

As the Chapter Associate, and co-lead of the Access, Equity, and Inclusion Team, I design and conduct workshops and training sessions to enhance leadership skills, and organizational effectiveness, and promote diversity and inclusion. My responsibilities include assessing training needs, providing coaching and mentorship, facilitating group discussions, and incorporating DEIA principles into training, evaluate training effectiveness, stay updated on industry trends, and play a crucial role in fostering inclusive cultures and achieving organizational goals.

Accomplishments:

Secured $2.5M United Health Fund grant for mental health and first aid training in chapters

- Co-led $850K initiative for accessible resources, bridging digital gap for disability community. Orchestrated AT&T digital literacy workshops, promoting plain language materials

- Provided partnership with Jeenie Language Interpreting Services to 500+ chapters

• Secured funding from Comcast Universal to build a Chapter Database
  

- Expanded outreach to Spanish-speaking families at The Arc, securing funding from Comcast Universal for Spanish-language curriculum, scholarships, and website section

- Secured $10K in external donations for The Arc's chapters and transition age youth

- Onboarded 8 new chapter leaders across 6 states, engaged with 12 groups for new chapters

- Conducted accessibility reviews and event support policy assessments

- Reviewed and scored 200+ proposals for The Arc main conferences

- Achieved 690 attendees out of 732 at The Arc's National Convention Conference

- Offered over 70 no-cost professional development webinars to all chapter staff

- Created board leadership training curriculum

- Provided leadership development support to The Arc's National Conference of Executives

- Developed mentorship program for emerging leaders within The Arc's network

- Established partnerships with stakeholders to expand resources and support for disability community

- Represented The Arc at national conferences, advocating for disability rights and inclusion

- Conducted organizational assessments and implemented improvement strategies

- Designed team-building workshops for chapter leaders

- Implemented succession planning and leadership development strategies

- Conducted leadership competency assessments and provided targeted coaching

- Led organizational restructuring for efficiency and alignment

- Established stakeholder feedback mechanisms

- Developed and facilitated leadership events, fostering innovation and growth

In my role as a special education classroom assistant, I am committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the classroom. I ensure that every student, regardless of ability or health status, receives equal access to education and support. Collaborating closely with healthcare professionals, I address students' health-related needs and advocate for accommodations to facilitate their academic success. By championing inclusive policies and practices, I create a supportive environment where all students feel valued and empowered to thrive.

Accomplishments:

• Prioritize inclusivity and accessibility in education, ensuring equal access to learning opportunities for all students, including those with disabilities.
  
• Engage in continuous professional development to enhance skills and knowledge in supporting diverse learners, including those with health-related needs.
  
• Advocate for students' rights and needs within the school system, ensuring access to necessary health accommodations and support services.
  
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, such as nurses and therapists, to address students' health-related needs and promote overall well-being.
  
• Implement health and wellness initiatives within the classroom, promoting healthy habits and lifestyles among students.
  
• Support students with chronic health conditions, providing accommodations and assistance to ensure their academic success and well-being.
  
• Foster partnerships with community health organizations and resources to provide additional support and resources for students and their families.
  
• Stay informed about health-related issues and best practices in education, incorporating this knowledge into classroom strategies and curriculum development.
  
• Advocate for policies and practices that promote health equity and address disparities in access to healthcare and support services for students with disabilities.
  

As an intern at the Hussman Institute for Autism, I organize recreational activities fostering social engagement and skill development for individuals with autism. Responsibilities include planning diverse outings such as arts and crafts sessions, outdoor adventures like hiking or nature walks, sports and fitness activities, music and dance classes, and group games and puzzles.

Accomplishments:

• Successfully planned and executed a variety of recreational outings.
  
• - Modified activities to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with autism.
  
• - Provided direct support to participants, fostering a supportive atmosphere.
  
• - Contributed to evaluating activity effectiveness and gathering participant feedback.
  
• - Collaborated with local organizations to expand recreational opportunities for individuals with autism