Our Purpose & Promise
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.
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, MPA | 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.