The “I AM INCLUDED” Program is for youth between the ages of 14-22; grades 8-12th with specific disabilities. This program is offered under the Memphis Office of Youth Services, it umbrellas under the MAP program. Our goal is to empower all children and reach out to those with disabilities because they are often left out of the conversation. This is how the program name “I AM INCLUDED” came about. We believe that students with disabilities deserve the same opportunities and recognition as everyone else.

Our groups meet weekly for an hour to engage in transitional opportunities to support our youth's future. Each group is led by a youth specialist who is an expert in special education and dedicated to the program's goals and visions. 

Our staff not only teaches but mentors as well as working with business partners. Year-round transitional topics include self-advocacy, professional development, financial literacy, post-secondary options, conflict resolution, goal setting, mental health awareness,  and work readiness skills, and to emphasize the importance of community service keeping our youth active in the community. All ambassadors receive  a monthly stipend based on their participation and educational metrics within the program.

The vision for our program is to help students prepare for the workforce, be knowledgeable of post-secondary options, and military careers with an overall goal of them becoming productive citizens of society. We hope that our program benefits students in a positive way and leads them down a path of success and self-confidenece. 

​

I AM INCLUDED is a year-round development and enrichment program that focuses on Community Service, Leadership, Education, Entrepreneurship, and Perseverance. 

​

During the summer months we host a Summer Leadership Academy to keep students engaged and active during their summer break from traditional learning I AM INCLUDED Ambassadors who are seniors in high school and complete the program successfully will have the opportunity to receive an internship within City Government, pending criteria. All ambassadors receive a monthly stipend based on their participation and educational GPA metrics within the program.