Walking around the many tables and smelling the different snacks, crowds are here to celebrate the same group: those with disabilities.
The third RAD event this year was hosted at Heineman Middle School on Oct. 8, to celebrate individuals with disabilities. The main highlight of the event was “Meaningful Inclusion.”
RAD, or Recognizing American Diversity, is a club at Huntley High School. The club’s main goal is to spread inclusiveness and positivity for minority groups. They achieve this by celebrating a different group each month.
These celebrations include food, dances, and fun activities that showcase the celebrated group.
At this event, multiple companies joined to unite and embrace differences. The companies that offer opportunities for people with disabilities ran tables and offered free merchandise to represent these individuals. Many businesses were there, including Walmart, Culver’s, and Goodwill.
A virtual presentation featuring the authors of the book “The Way to Inclusion,” Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak, was offered to help RAD promote inclusivity.
The presentation described how to treat people with disabilities and how to help them without offending anyone. It also described the reason why they wrote their book and how to continue to support minority groups.
The general manager of the Culver’s in Huntley, Scott Barbknecht, explained that Culver’s works with the District LIGHT program.
“We provide jobs such as cleaning tables and food running to help the students get a real-world experience,” said Barbknecht.
As well as Culver’s, Walmart also offers similar experiences by letting students restock shelves, greet people as they walk in, and work at checkout lines.
“Working at Walmart is an easy and accessible job for all people,” said Walmart manager Elvia Gallardo.
Student representatives run games, snacks, and craft tables. They also help coordinate the different businesses to come to the event.
“The hope is for others to learn about different minority groups and their cultures,” said RAD student representative Hailey Van Alstine.
