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Disability Pride Month
Disability Pride Month, first celebrated in 1990, commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark legislation prohibits discrimination based on disability and ensures equal opportunities in all areas of public life. Disability Pride Month promotes visibility and mainstream awareness of the positive pride felt by people with disabilities. It is a time to honor the contributions of individuals with disabilities and advocate for a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive. It is also a time to advocate for a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive. At the Ashland Food Co-op, we are committed to supporting all members of our community. We believe that diversity and inclusivity make us stronger, and we are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month this July, we are honored to share the inspiring story of Luke Hogan Laurenson, a remarkable member of our Ashland community. Luke, who graduated as valedictorian from Ashland High School in 2023, has overcome numerous challenges to achieve this milestone. Born with a disability, Luke's journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community support.
Despite the physical challenges he faced, Luke excelled academically and socially. His valedictorian speech resonated with many as he spoke about hope, the importance of embracing one's individuality, and the joy of dancing – a passion of his that reflects his positive spirit. Luke also drew inspiration from his favorite artist, Taylor Swift, whose music and messages of empowerment have been a constant source of motivation.
Luke's success is not just a personal victory but also a reflection of the inclusive and supportive environment of Ashland. Our community has rallied around him, offering encouragement and resources to help him thrive. This spirit of inclusivity is something we, at Ashland Food Co-op, deeply value and strive to foster within our own space.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Disability Pride Month by learning more about the stories of individuals like Luke Hogan and supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity and accessibility. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels valued and empowered.
If you would like to follow Luke on his journey you can check out his Youtube channel and his non-profit, Luke's Foundation for Love.
More Co-op News
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Empowering Our Community: AFC's Community Grants Now Accepting Applications
As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the local community, AFC is thrilled to announce the that we are accepting applications for our Community Grants program.
Ashland Food Co-op's Community Grants program is designed to foster meaningful change in the Southern Oregon region. Through these grants, we seek to support projects that align with our mission of promoting local and sustainable food systems, addressing food insecurity, and promoting community engagement.
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July's Change for Good Partner - Maslow Project
Ashland Food Co-op is thrilled to partner with Maslow Project for our Change for Good program! Maslow Project is an incredible organization that works tirelessly to support homeless youth and families in Southern Oregon. Their mission is to empower individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency, and they do this through a range of services including housing assistance, medical care, and educational support.
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June 2023 Change for Good Partner: Southern Oregon Land Conservancy
The Ashland Food Co-op is teaming up with the Southern Oregon Land Conservancy (SOLC) as its Change for Good partner for this month. This collaboration aims to support SOLC's mission of conserving Southern Oregon's natural landscapes and habitats.
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Bicycle Benefits
Here at the Co-op we are on a mission to promote healthy lifestyles and sustainable practices within our community.
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May 2023 Change for Good Partner: Talent Maker City
Talent Maker City's mission is to build a more connected, prosperous, and resilient community through hands-on creativity and innovative STEAM-based learning. (STEAM = Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math.) They have a bustling Makerspace facility, brimming with creative energy in downtown Talent offering hands-on STEAM-based workshops and programming for curious minds of all ages!
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Celebrating Cinco de Mayo
We're always learning and growing here at the Co-op and with the approach of Cinco de Mayo we thought we would share a (very) brief history lesson and some thoughts on celebrating this holiday here in the United States.
April 2023 Change for Good Partner: Pollinator Project Rogue Valley
From Kristina Lefever, Pollinator Project Rogue Valley President
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March 2023 Change for Good: Klamath Bird Observatory
From Klamath Bird Observatory, March 2023's Change for Good partner:
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Frederick Douglass And Co-ops in 1846
When Douglass Came to Rochdale, England a Slave and Left a Free Man
By David J Thompson
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February's Change for Good partner: OHRA
OHRA helps low-income people build better lives through access to social service resources. By helping
people move from crisis to stability, OHRA builds more capable individuals, stronger families, and a
better community. We have three core programs:
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January Change for Good Partner: Ashland Food Angels
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December Change for Good Partner: Rogue Action Center
December's Change for Good Partner is
Rogue Action Center
The Rogue Action Center (RAC) builds organizing infrastructure, leaders, and community power for a just, inclusive, and sustainable Southern Oregon for everyone.
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November Change for Good Partner: Vesper Meadow Education Program
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October Change for Good Partner: AFC Gives Community Fund
October's Change for Good Partner is
AFC Gives Community Fund