We believe that every member’s journey is powerful, and Claire’s story is a beautiful example of resilience, purpose, and self-advocacy in action.
Claire is a proud member of LIFEPlan CCO NY, our sister organization, who is not only working in her community, but giving back to it. She currently works and mentors at a local school in her community and works alongside The Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD), where she continues to inspire others with developmental disabilities.
But Claire’s impact doesn’t stop there. She is also the author of a children’s book titled:
“Beautifully Different: Finding My True Self in My Disability.”
Inspired by her own journey, Claire wrote this book to help children understand that being different is not something to hide, but it is something to celebrate. It encourages them to:
- Embrace who they are
- Recognize their strengths
- Find pride in their identity
- Understand that differences are powerful
Claire is currently working on publishing her book and hopes it will live in classrooms, libraries, and homes, especially for children who need to see someone like themselves reflected in a positive way.
Claire’s journey reminds us that in observance of International Women’s Day, and every day, the voices and stories of women with disabilities deserve to be seen and heard, and that sharing those stories can be a powerful way to live out one’s purpose.
And her purpose is clear: To help others feel beautifully different, too.