The mission of FIN is to promote awareness of and provide support for the inclusion of people with disabilities and their families into faith communities.
Faith Inclusion Network (FIN) is a non-profit, grass roots organization founded in May of 2008, dedicated to helping faith communities include people with disabilities and helping families affected by disability to find welcoming and accessible places to worship.
On May 1, 2008, Karen Jackson, founder of FIN, gathered 22 representatives from faith communities and disability service providers for the first time to discuss how to broaden awareness, share resources and begin to better meet the spiritual needs of people with disabilities in our community. FIN held bi-annual faith and disability conferences, gala events and many smaller community events in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area. We also consult with individuals, families, faith community leaders and volunteers on issues of faith and disability. FIN expanded and has established a network in Midland, Texas. FIN supports other faith communities and networks throughout the country.
FIN is active in planning the Institute on Theology and Disability, a 4 day faith and disability conference. FIN is a founding member of the Disability Ministry Network, a nonprofit whose members include faith and disability organizations.
FIN has led multi-faith disability discussions and collaborations on disability topics. FIN learns the unique ways each faith includes, advocates, and serves people with disabilities. Through sharing, FIN is better able to help people with disabilities and their families find a place of worship where they can belong and flourish.
Goal #1
To help people with disabilities and their families find welcoming and accessible faith communities.
Goal #2
To provide training, consultations, and network opportunities to help faith communities better include people with disabilities in their congregations.
Goal #3
To connect faith and disability inclusion initiatives and their leaders from around the country in order to further the national faith and disability movement.
