Our Mission
At Ability to Include, we believe inclusion isn’t optional, it’s essential. Our mission is simple: to level the playing field so that every child, regardless of ability or diagnosis, and every family, regardless of resources, has access to education, recreation, support, and community.
Our Vision
We don’t just aim to serve, we aim to belong. We build programs and services that center inclusion, champion belonging, and remove barriers, so families can access the support they need without fear or exclusion. What matters to us most is that every child, sibling, and family, not just those with formal diagnoses, feels welcome, supported, and empowered.
Why We Exist
Many families face overwhelming barriers when it comes to finding services, education, or recreational opportunities for children with special needs. Often, access depends on formal diagnoses, placement on waitlists, or resources families might not have.
That barrier shouldn’t stand between a child and their growth, or a family and their community. At Ability to Include, we exist to be a bridge: advocating for families, providing resources and offering inclusive programs that are open to everyone. No diagnosis. No means test. Just belonging and support.
The People Leading Inclusion Forward
Ability to Include is guided by compassionate leaders with deep experience in community advocacy, early childhood development, and inclusive programming. Together, they bring heart, expertise, and hands-on dedication to building environments where every child and family can thrive.
Below are the individuals driving our mission forward every day.
Chris Collins | Executive Director
Chris was born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, and has dedicated over 20 years to working with children and families both in the classroom and within the community. He holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the State College of Florida and a Master of Public Administration from Florida State University.
Chris brings experience across multiple special needs and educational settings. He has earned certifications in Pre-K through 3rd Grade Teaching, Registered Behavior Technician, U.S. Soccer Licensed Coach, Children’s Development Council PD Specialist, and DCF Director’s Credential. His work focuses on ensuring that children, including those with disabilities have access to inclusive programs, support, and opportunities to grow.
Chris has served on several boards in Tallahassee and Sarasota/Manatee and enjoys spending time with his partner and two step-children when he’s not coaching or building programs that open doors for local families.
Sarah Smith | Director of Mission Advancement
Sarah is a passionate community advocate with a focus on grassroots organizing, inclusive programming, and partnership development. As the founder of Queer Soccer Florida (QSFL), she has spent the past six years expanding access to recreation and strengthening community engagement across Sarasota. Her work centers equity, access, and representation, values she amplifies through projects like radical book clubs, wellness picnics, and donation drives in collaboration with local organizations and businesses.
At Ability to Include, Sarah leads mission advancement and program expansion, supporting families through play-based learning, caregiver resources, and community-centered initiatives that prioritize inclusion for children with special needs.
Sarah lives in Sarasota and enjoys big dogs, backpacking, queer history, and building community through collaboration.
Our Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors brings together professionals from education, healthcare, finance, and the local community who share a passion for inclusion. Their leadership and guidance help ensure Ability to Include continues creating meaningful, accessible experiences for individuals of all abilities.
Darla Parry, BCBA, Ed.S.
Darla Parry is an experienced behavior analyst and small business owner in Manatee County for a combined 25 years. She has her Master’s Degree in Special Education and Teaching from the University of South Florida and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
She has held a number of roles with the school district, as a certified Exceptional Student Educator, Behavior Specialist, and more recently the Professional Crisis Management Coordinator.
She brings a wealth of knowledge in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities.
Board PresidentBrittany Cowger
Brittany Cowger is a proud native of Bradenton, Florida and attended the State College of Florida. She is a second generation banker with 21 years of experience in the industry.
With her previous experience as a childcare worker through high school and extensive background in finance, Brittany brings a special blend of a hometown heart and financial expertise to Ability to Include’s Board as Treasurer.
Brittany continues to reside in her beloved hometown with her husband. She enjoys spending time with her friends and family when not volunteering her time to make her beloved community a better place for all children.
Board TreasurerKyle Slone is a University of Cincinnati graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Education in Foundations in Behavior Analysis.
He is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Behavior Analyst in Maryland and Virginia. His ABA experience includes providing home, clinic, and school-based services. Throughout his career, Kyle has served as a teacher, Registered Behavior Technician, and Clinical Supervisor, and he currently serves as an Associate Clinical Director.
Kyle currently resides in Frederick, Maryland. In his free time, he enjoys running, playing golf, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Board DirectorKyle Slone, BCBA, M.Ed
Powered by People Who Care
Every year, Ability to Include programs are made possible by over 100 dedicated volunteers who believe in creating meaningful, inclusive experiences for children and adults with disabilities. Our volunteers range from high school students to medical school students, along with compassionate community members who live and work throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Together, they bring heart, energy, and intention to everything we do.
