Inspired 2 Uplift, also known as I2U, was founded by three determined Grade 12 students at MacNeill Secondary School - Aidan, Farzan, and Ali. Having known each other for years and even attending elementary school together, they felt a deep disconnect with the students in their school's Life Skills program, one of the few dedicated programs in Richmond supporting students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and a wider disconnect between youth and youth with disabilities.

Determined to make a change, the trio embarked on a challenging journey to start a program that would bring students with and without disabilities together. The founders faced many trials and tribulations, but with a strong sense of purpose and the support of the school community, they successfully launched the Inspired 2 Uplift's Buddy Program.

Within just a year, the Buddy Program had become one of the largest clubs at MacNeill, creating countless meaningful connections between students and volunteers, and offering personalized support to students with disabilities.

Inspired 2 Uplift and its members remain committed to continuing their mission of combating the stigma surrounding students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They hope to further expand by opening new chapters of its initiative at other institutions and going to more schools to teach about disabilities, while also helping shape their members into the leaders of tomorrow.

With a shared vision and determination, the future looks bright for Inspired 2 Uplift.

^^^^^^^^^^ You can use this as inspiration for your own "Our Story!"