b'According to the Oxford Dictionary, the definition of inclusion isthe practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or intellectual disabilities and membersof other minority groups.Becoming a part of something, while beingday program (The Living Center) and teaches connected to others and working toward abeginner ASL to the members and staff at CCEC common goal, is what inclusion is all about. Weon a weekly basis. Irene is working to set up ASL all want to be included, whether its for an event,classes at the Pembroke and Hanson councils a job, a party, or anything else that brings peopleon aging. She likes that people want to learn together. about the deaf community and their experiences, The individuals at New England Village makeand enjoys when people can communicate to sure they are fully immersed in our neighboringher using ASL signs. I love teaching, she said. townsworking at local businesses, volunteeringPeople can understand me.at food pantries and other organizations, joining local sports teams, and just being active members of the community. It provides them with that sense of pride in what they do, and in being a part of something larger than themselves.Irene M. has had many opportunities to do what she lovesteach American Sign Language to young people in the community with the support of her day program staff. Her first class was in October 2022 at the Hanson Public Library, where she shared her expertise in ASL with a group of kindergarten students. Using pictures, she introduced them to the ASL alphabet and taught them to sign. By the end of the class, the kids were able to sign their own names. She has since taught children of all ages, as well as caregivers.In addition to teaching in the community, Irene assists with the ASL Club on the NEV campus for residents and staff twice per month. She also teaches ASL to her peers and staff at her Irene M.5'