UWG’s Inclusive Den Bridges the Social Gap for Disabled Community Share this page
When entering college, all students have one hope in mind: acceptance. Transitioning from high school to college is one of the most difficult tasks for any upcoming college student, but it can be twice as hard for those who live with disabilities. The fight for increasing better and extensive resources is forever ongoing, so much so that the University of West Georgia’s Inclusive Den has made it a mission to assist with this issue firsthand.
Operating under the College of Education’s Department of Special Education, the Inclusive Den is a social group that thrives on inclusivity for young adults with and without disabilities in the west Georgia area. The group was created to address the gap in social opportunities for disabled people, specifically for those who age out of the school system. Dr. Brandy Locchetta, assistant professor and assistant department chair, notes that young adults with disabilities tend to have a hard time on transitioning from high school to post-grad life – it’s even harder if they are unable to form authentic relationships with their peers.
“There is simply a lack of quality support and activities for young adults with disabilities in our area,” Locchetta said. “We also know that many of young adults with disabilities find new ‘friends’ and activities to engage in that lead to their interaction with the justice system, often coerced into engaging in illegal activities as a way to make friends and socially connect.”
With the help of the Inclusive Den, those with disabilities can immerse themselves in an environment that is both welcoming and understanding. But it doesn’t stop there. The group has been accepting of bringing people with no disabilities, thus catering to the “inclusive” aspect of its mission. So far, the group has participated in monthly activities such as UWG sporting events and bowling.
Before becoming involved with the Inclusive Den, junior student Elizabeth Becerra-Turner was immediately drawn to the background and mission of the group, especially since it aligns with her experience of being involved in school. As a dual major in special education and general education, the group also correlated with her passion in working with those with disabilities.
But once she was in it, Becerra-Turner wasn’t aware of how different the world can be for everyone – but it has taught her that it’s okay to live your life to the fullest and not be afraid of who you are.
“Each of these individuals have their stories and despite all of their hardships life has thrown at them, they are some of the most outgoing happiest individuals I have ever been around,” she said.
Based on what Becerra-Turner has witnessed, the Inclusive Den has proved itself to be a safe space for any and everyone. She even noted that young adults with no disabilities have become more aware of how different things can be for those with disabilities.
“Speaking for myself, I never really stopped to think about how different things could be,” Becerra-Turner said. “We all come together as a group, and we go out and face the world.”
Not only that, but the Inclusive Den has been a pivotal life changing experience for Becerra-Turner, specifically after feeling “out of place” internally and being afraid of living her true self.
“I used to live my life afraid of what people thought of me and scared to do something for myself,” she stated. “This club has taught me so much, and I am so thankful I chose to become involved.”
Locchetta acknowledged Becerra-Turner’s efforts to create lasting friendships, as well as embodying the values of UWG.
“She has championed inclusion and become increasingly more involved across other campus initiatives, shining a light on the power of inclusion,” she said. “I know she will continue to change the world as she graduates and take her skills and passions into our communities.”
For anyone who is interested in joining the Inclusive Den, Becerra-Turner highly recommends anyone to join the amazing community.
“We always have a great time,” she concluded. “It’s such an amazing experience to get out and have fun with everyone. I’ve made the best of friends within this group, and I look forward to every outing we have.”