Early this spring, SDI received an unexpected invitation to apply for a grant…and it turned out to be much more than a financial gift.

The invitation came from the Access for All Foundation, a student team in WashU’s Philanthropy Lab, a hands-on class that blends theory and practice to ignite interest and participation in philanthropy in our next generation of leaders.

With a mission to advocate for and support the well-being of people with disabilities in the St. Louis metro area, the students behind Access for All identified local organizations that “aim to create a society where individuals are fully included, with their rights upheld and identities represented.”

Their values and goals closely aligned with SDI’s own mission, making this a truly meaningful connection.

Beyond submitting a grant application, the students running Access for All came for a site visit to learn about our mission and impact. (The Lab emphasizes thoughtful, responsible philanthropy—including the kind of vetting and relationship-building necessary for meaningful community change.)

The visit was phenomenal! We put together a brief presentation and shared our stories as a disability-led organization. Lori Becker recounted her journey from being a program participant nearly 13 years ago to now serving as our CEO. The students, representing a variety of majors and backgrounds, were fully engaged. They asked thoughtful questions about our data, our outcomes, and how we’re creating lasting change in our community.

Gifts of Time, Talent, and Treasure

As the visit wrapped up, one student asked how she could get involved beyond this project. That student, Gitanjali Raghava, is now a volunteer on our Development and Communications Committee. She’s co-leading the creation of our new Impact Network—a group for young and emerging professionals excited to connect, learn, and champion our mission of disability inclusion.

Then, in early May, we got the exciting news: Access for All Foundation awarded the $10,000 grant to SDI!

At the award ceremony, we were honored to meet Chancellor Andrew Morton and join four other local nonprofits in receiving grants ranging from $5,000 to $17,000 from the various student-led “foundations” in the class. Seventeen additional groups were recognized with smaller awards in appreciation of their vital work and commitment to the community.

This opportunity was made possible through a funding partnership between the Philanthropy Lab (national), the Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement, other WashU centers, and generous local donors. After the awards were announced, we learned that one of the donors supporting Access for All—who had no involvement in the selection process—is also a longtime supporter of SDI. He was thrilled to hear we were chosen!

We’re so grateful for the Access for All Foundation’s belief in our work—and for the amazing students already making a difference in our community.