FIRE Foundation

Jill Fahy joined Inclusive Academia to provide information on the STEP (Students with Autism Transitional Education Program) at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois. Jill describes Eastern Illinois as a small public university in a small town in central Illinois that feels a lot like a private college given the size of its student body. Jill personally knows many of the faculty and many of the students she sees on campus. The STEP Program serves about 30 students. The program supports all aspects of student life. Jill particularly highlighted the STEP Program's focus on academic supports and study tables, transition services for new students, peer mentoring, social activities, and job and career services support. # College Autism Network

We remember and honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ??

I am deeply honored to have received the SPARK Award at the 2024 FIREBall Gala from the?FIRE Foundation. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this possible and for allowing me to be part of such a wonderful organization. The FIRE Foundation is a nonprofit that provides schools with the resources to integrate inclusive education into Catholic schools. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing their incredible work firsthand. From my early education through high school, I attended Catholic schools that embraced FIRE’s mission. At St. Michael the Archangel, I became a lead peer mentor, working with students with special needs in the classroom. It was truly inspiring to see the community’s support for the program and the students involved. ? After graduating, my passion for the FIRE Foundation’s work only grew. I knew I wanted to do more to ensure that more schools, families, and students could benefit from their mission. For the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering with FIRE, witnessing the positive impact they’ve made not only in Kansas City but across the country. It’s truly an honor to receive this award and be part of such a meaningful movement. ? The?FIRE Foundation?will always hold a special place in my heart and remain a significant part of my life. Thank you to the FIRE team for selecting me for this award and for all you do for students. A special thank you to?Susan Williams?for your mentorship and for welcoming me into this incredible organization—I am truly blessed to know you. ? I encourage you to learn more about the FIRE Foundation and consider supporting their mission to make inclusive education a reality for all students. Visit?www.firefoundation.org?to see how you can get involved and help continue this life-changing work!