By: Dr. Jim Rimmer

John Donne’s statement back in the early 17th century essentially holds the key for the importance of partnerships:  “No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind.”  This is an important time for building partnerships in communities across America that represent and embrace the value of an inclusive society.  We at NCHPAD are absolutely thrilled at the growing interest among organizations that open their doors to people with disabilities in all areas of program, policy and community integration.  While our partnerships aim to facilitate inclusion in areas of health and wellness, there is a bigger message underlying this initiative: Partnerships are the lifeblood of a community, and people with and without disability need each other to fulfill a meaningful life that provides a strong sense of belongingness. No man is an island.