The collaboration between Easterseals Northeast Indiana and the I CAN Service Team is redefining what it means to volunteer by making community service more inclusive and accessible. Together, these organizations empower individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
A Unified Vision for Community Engagement
Founded in 2014, the I CAN Service Team stands for Inclusion, Community, Access, and Neighbors—core values that drive its mission. Partnering with Easterseals Northeast Indiana, this initiative expands volunteer opportunities while promoting disability inclusion and community service.
Impactful Community Volunteer Projects
Through this collaboration, volunteers have completed numerous projects that directly benefit the community:
- Recycling masks for elastic reuse – Supporting sustainability efforts.
- Assembling hygiene kits for the homeless – Providing essential care items.
- Creating candy bags for volunteer appreciation – Recognizing community service efforts.
- Packing food drive bags for the Community Harvest SeniorPak program – Combating food insecurity.
- Assembling treat bags for Honor Flights – Supporting veterans.
- Gift wrapping over 400 pajama sets – Benefiting the Northeast Indiana Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.
- Decorating door hangers for assisted living facilities – Spreading joy in senior communities.
- Preparing safety bags for first aid kits – Promoting emergency preparedness.
A Shared Commitment to Inclusion
Ani Etter, executive director at the Volunteer Center, emphasizes the importance of accessible volunteerism.
“The I CAN Service Team program is designed to challenge stereotypes and to eliminate barriers to volunteering by offering opportunities for volunteer engagement for individuals with enduring developmental and intellectual disabilities,” she said. “The program activities are designed to include volunteers of all abilities, demonstrating our sincere belief that we all can contribute to the greater good of our community.”
This belief is at the core of the partnership between Easterseals Northeast Indiana and the I CAN Service Team, ensuring that individuals of all abilities can make a positive impact.
The Power of Volunteering: A Personal Perspective
Danny is a Easterseals Northeast Indiana consumer involved with the volunteer opportunities.
“Volunteering with Easterseals Northeast Indiana has given me a renewed sense of purpose,” he said.
Moving Forward: The Future of Inclusive Volunteerism
The partnership between Easterseals Northeast Indiana and the I CAN Service Team continues to inspire community engagement and inclusive volunteer opportunities. By expanding accessibility and strengthening disability inclusion efforts, this model serves as an example of how organizations can work together to create lasting change.