Inclusive Together Community Update
- Inclusive Together
- Feb 9
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 10
Ending 2025 with heart. Beginning 2026 with purpose.
As we closed out 2025 and stepped into a new year, we were reminded—again and again—that inclusion is built in small, meaningful moments. A calm room. A patient conversation. A community that shows up.
Here’s a look at how we ended the year strong and what we’ve already been up to so far in 2026.
Holiday Magic: An Inclusive Santa Experience
On December 12, Inclusive Together proudly partnered again with A to Z Occupational Therapy to create a Santa experience designed for families with loved ones with invisible disabilities.
Long lines, loud noise, and rushed photo ops can be overwhelming. This experience offered something different: a private, calm, and safe visit with Santa.
For some families, this was something they never thought would be possible.
A high five was a success
Being in the room was a success
A full family photo was a success
At Inclusive Together, we measure success in inches and we celebrate them every single one.
A heartfelt thank you to Santa, Joe Vericker of Photo Bureau Inc., and our partners at A to Z Occupational Therapy for continuing to make this magic possible.
Starting 2026 With Education & Advocacy: Virtual Parent Workshop
We kicked off 2026 with an important virtual parent workshop in partnership with SPED*Net and LINKED – Autism Safety Project.
This session focused on building strong, proactive connections between first responders and the disability community to foster trust, understanding, and effective communication during emergencies.
Caregivers, guardians, and parents play a vital role in sharing critical information about the unique needs of individuals with disabilities—helping ensure safer, more compassionate outcomes during high-stress situations.
School Visit Spotlight: Building Empathy Early
In January, our founder Lauren Tarzia spoke with grades 3–5 at Judson Elementary School in Watertown, CT.
Lauren, an autism mom and speech pathologist, leads these visits as part of an ongoing program that goes far beyond a one-time presentation. Students learn about autism and other invisible disabilities, ask thoughtful questions, and explore simple ways to help classmates feel seen and included.
Because sometimes, even a hello can change someone’s day.
Our goals:
Build empathy
Grow confidence
Create inclusive schools and communities
Special thanks to Principal Kristin Raymond and our community partner, Christine Faressa at Sun, Moon & Stars. Please follow Christine on Instagram: @faressachristine and @sunmoonandstarsinc. We can’t wait for part two this spring!
Interested in bringing this program to your school?
Email: info@inclusivetogether.org
Bake & Belong: Adaptive Programming in Action
Our Valentine’s Bake & Belong event with Sweet P Bakery filled up fast—and for good reason.
Held in the Kend Family Kitchen at the New Canaan Library, this cozy, adaptive baking experience offered children in grades K-5 and young adults (14+) a neurodivergent-affirming space to connect, create, and simply be themselves.
While spots filled up quickly, we always encourage families to join the waitlist—openings do happen!
Events like this are made possible through community support and donations that allow us to expand adaptive programming.
New Website Launch
We’re excited to share that our new Inclusive Together website is live!
Designed to better reflect who we are and why inclusion matters, the site offers:
Easier access to events and resources
A new blog
A welcoming space for all kinds of minds - Yes! Our website is accessibility compliant
Sign up for our email list to stay connected
NeuroStrong Moms: Connection & Support
We recently hosted our first NeuroStrong Moms dinner, and the energy in the room was exactly what we hoped for—uplifting, supportive, and full of connection.
This group exists to remind moms that whatever season they’re in, they don’t have to do it alone. Inclusive Together is proud to help lead this growing community.
Our next meet-up is already scheduled for Saturday, March 14 at 5 pm. If you are interested in attending, please email lauren.tarzia@inclusivetogether.org for more details.
This is just the beginning. Together, we are strong—NeuroStrong ♾️
Help Us Keep Inclusion Growing
Your support allows Inclusive Together to continue offering adaptive programming, education, and advocacy for families and communities.
Thank you for being part of a community that believes everyone belongs.
With gratitude,
The Inclusive Together Team
So proud of this milestone for Inclusive Together 💙 The new Community Update is such a beautiful reflection of the inches we measure and celebrate every single day. Watching this mission grow—from an idea rooted in love to real impact in our community—means more than I can put into words. Grateful to do this work alongside Lauren and our incredible team.