National Service Inclusion Project Paula Sotnik, Director Exploring Episodic Service

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Who are people with disabilities?

“ Disability” as Defined by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act & The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities A history or record of such an impairment Being regarded as having such an impairment, even when no limitations exist Someone who has an association with someone with a disability

Our Legal Responsibilities: 1.Access 2.Reasonable Accommodations 3.Alternative Format 2.Communication and Supervision 3.Documentation and Record Keeping 4.Appeals Process

Beyond Disability, Broadening Diversity with Universal Design Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning recognizes and accommodates individual learning, communication and working differences. Multiple means of representation to give learners various ways of acquiring information and knowledge, Multiple means of expression to provide learners alternatives for demonstrating what they know, and Multiple means of engagement to tap into learners' interests, challenge them appropriately, and motivate them to learn.

Application to Episodic or Micro Volunteering A growing trend…. What is Episodic or Micro Volunteering? … when volunteering (or service) occurs on a more sporadic, temporary and noncommittal basis (Hustinx and Lammertyn, 2003: 168).

What recent campaign changed politics forever? Campaign Volunteers used: - unprecedented communication strategy -"online call tool” - and text messages to promote policies, and updates, online -website surveys so potential voters received messages tailored close to their beliefs -a website program Neighbor-to-Neighbor (volunteers walking their neighborhoods before election fed back data on “undecideds” in real time)

Who Are Episodic or Micro Service Members and Volunteers? NSIP has found that a range of individuals, many of whom have never served, are interested in Episodic or Micro Volunteering/Service: Veterans and Wounded Warriors people with disabilities like to work alone (episodic offers more op’s) individuals who want to build self-confidence for potential longer term projects

SO, how do we accommodate episodic volunteers who have diverse learning, working, and communication styles and different needs, motivations and expectations than traditional volunteers? How do we ensure that all have a meaningful experience and impact their communities?

Click to edit Master title style Contact Information: National Service Inclusion Project [V/TTY]