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Dictionary.com Announces “Allyship” as its 2021 Word of the Year

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Do you think the disability community has seen an increase in allyship? According to Dictionary.com, interest in allyship in support of the disability community and other marginalized groups has risen.

Dictionary.com, the leading online and mobile English-language educational resource, announced its Word of the Year for 2021: allyship. The word carries special distinction this year as it marks the first time Dictionary.com has chosen a word new to its dictionary as its Word of the Year.

Allyship is defined by Dictionary.com as “the status or role of a person who advocates and actively works for the inclusion of a marginalized or politicized group in all areas of society, not as a member of that group but in solidarity with its struggle and point of view and under its leadership.” The addition of the word to the dictionary in 2021—as well as the decision to elevate it as the top word for the year—captures important ways the word continues to evolve in language and reflects its increased prominence in English discourse.

The Word of the Year selection was based on the site’s search trends, along with the major themes of the lexicographical and educational work across Dictionary.com and Thesaurus.com this year. The word ally itself landed within the top 850 of the many thousands of search terms that led people to Dictionary.com this year. According to corpus data, the word that most commonly precedes allyship is performative, indicating the conversation about the term is concerned with the authenticity of advocacy seen this past year. Additionally, the top related search for allyship in 2021 is definitional, what is allyship, underscoring the company’s timeliness and relevance for adding the word to the database this year.

An abstract noun naming an increasingly salient and relevant concept today, the word allyship combines the noun ally, “a person who advocates for or supports a marginalized or politicized group but is not a member of the group,” and –ship, suffix denoting “status, condition.” Dictionary.com has found evidence for this sense of ally as early as the 1940s in an article by Albert W. Hamilton on “allies on the front of racial justice” for Black peopleAllyship is first attested around 1850 in a more general sense of “the relationship or status of persons, groups, or nations associating and cooperating with one another for a common cause,” but use of the word in contexts of social justice, which gained momentum in the 1990s and has steeply risen since 2020.

In selecting the Word of the Year, Dictionary.com points to ways in which the term allyship is increasingly being extended to contexts of support outside of racial, gender, and sexual identity, such as disability and economic status. From workplaces to classrooms, this year the word was a throughline in important discussions involving other defining terms of 2021, including DEIcritical race theory, and vaccines. It was also a theme among the support of healthcare workers and teachers, which further inspired Dictionary.com’s own efforts in expanding from a source of definitions and synonyms to a leading educational resource aimed at supporting teachers and educators across the country.

family using computer

“From the ongoing impacts of the pandemic to the ways we continue to grapple with polizariation, allyship acted as a prism for the defining events of 2021. These events were notable not only in their own right, of course, but also because of the ways we largely reacted to and discussed them through the lens of who gets a voice, who deserves empathy, and who and what is valued. This was a lens of allyship”, said John Kelly, Associate Director of Content & Education at Dictionary.com. “Words make a real difference in our lives. As our 2021 Word of the Year, allyship stands out for its role in a path of the challenges we continue to grapple with from 2020.

Here’s a Healthy Holiday Hostess Gift that Protects Against Neurodegenerative Diseases, like Alzheimer’s

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Oranges and orange juices are praised as excellent sources for essential vitamin consumption. But, other than zesting for an occasional recipe, orange peels are usually removed and discarded. Some medical experts, however, say you shouldn’t waste the rind! Because, just like the inner fruit segments of an orange, its peel is packed with disease-fighting nutrients.

Health Facts Worth Chewing On

Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture cites that an orange peel offers a higher daily value of fiber, vitamin C and some health-boosting plant compounds compared to the inner fruit. These findings are worth noting because diets rich in such nutrients benefit both heart and digestive health, prevent the growth of cancer cells and combat obesity.

This is important as, according to the Centers for Disease Control, some disabilities, such as spinal cord injuries, can affect how well the bowel works. Plus, people with disabilities are less likely to be of healthy weight and more likely to be obese than people without disabilities. And heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability.

hands peeling an orange
photo credit Sunkist

Additionally, clinical trials identified that a compound called hesperidin, found in orange rind, boasted protection and therapeutical effects against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular diseases and other conditions, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, lipid-lowering and insulin-sensitizing properties.

Another compound in orange peels, called polyphenols, also is believed to help prevent and manage an array of chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and, again, Alzheimer’s disease.

Try this Healthy Holiday Hostess Gift  

To brighten up the typical party color palette of red and green dishes this season, consider infusing bits of orange. Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels can be a fresh and unexpected holiday hostess gift. Present in a clear glass jar adorned with seasonal ribbon. This simple and delicious homemade treat is from the heart (and good for the heart too)!

It’s actually peak season for sweet oranges, like Sunkist Navel oranges. Aside from gifting, these Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels are perfect for adding to cocktails or dessert trays. Plus, they support your immune system by offering 90% of your daily vitamin C.

Citrus fruit guide
photo credit: Sunkist

Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels

Recipe by Brandi Milloy and Sunkist

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 4 Sunkist Navel oranges
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 1 cup dark chocolate, melted

Directions

  1. Rinse and dry oranges. Slice both ends off each orange.
  2. Using a paring knife, carefully score each orange in quarters then remove peel from each section, trying not to get too much pith.
  3. Slice peels into 1/4-inch strips. Add to pot and cover with water and sugar; stir. Bring to boil.
  4. Turn heat to medium-low until the water reaches a soft simmer. Simmer 45 minutes. Add vanilla before turning off heat and stirring.
  5. Remove peels from syrup and cool on a wire rack. Roll in sugar to coat.
  6. Dry at least 4 hours, or overnight.
  7. Dip candied orange peels one at a time in dark chocolate.
  8. Place on parchment paper to set up and harden. Store in an airtight container.

Pssst… maybe these treats should be left on a tray for Santa too!

chocolate dipped orange peel
photo credit: Sunkist

More Ways to Savor the Flavor 

Orange peels can be an interesting addition to a well-balanced diet inclusive of many varieties of fruits and vegetables. When consuming an orange peel (or any citrus skin), opt for organic oranges to reduce exposure to pesticide residues. And, of course, wash the peel before consuming.

Use a grater or zesting tool to zest the outer skin, trying to avoid the more bitter white pith. Orange zest works great in baked goods, salads dressings and sprinkled on top of steamed veggies, rice/quinoa or oatmeal.

For more nutrition-based content, read: 

Here’s How Ugly Christmas Sweaters Can Beautifully Support the Disability Community

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Holiday-themed appeal has evolved to include the good, the bad and the ugly. In regards to the latter look: Are you a festive fashionista that boldly dons ugly sweaters, aka brightly-colored knit tops bedazzled with bells, tinsel, garland and glitter galore? Well, I am! I typically prefer much more understated garments, but I sure hope the tacky trend of ugly, over-the-top seasonal attire never retires. Let me explain why…

Making a Meaningful Fashion Statement 

Big box retailers now sell a pretty wide assortment of ugly holiday sweaters. But when this outrageous outfit choice first began several years back, shoppers hunting for kooky Christmas clothing (self-included) headed straight to Goodwill, an international chain thrift store that sells gently-used clothing, furniture and household items at discounted prices.

Four ugly Christmas sweater wearers
photo credit: Goodwill

To this day, Goodwill sells ugly Christmas sweaters and hilarious holiday pieces in every shape, size and degree of tackiness. And if you can’t find the daring, ready-to-wear pullover of your dreams, you could easily snag a basic sweater at this second-hand shop and go the DIY route to achieve a merry masterpiece like none other. In fact, Goodwill stores often sell ugly sweater crafting materials — like fuzzy balls, ribbon, felt, etc. — to eliminate a second shopping trip in search of craft supplies.

How Ugly Christmas Sweaters Provide Beautiful Support 

As a cheerful customer exploring Goodwill’s racks filled with secondhand garments, you may not realize that your ugly Christmas sweater pursuit also engages your beautiful purchasing power in support of our disability community and other underserved communities. You see, giving to and/or shopping at the company’s 3,000+ retail stores and online auction (ShopGoodwill.com) empowers persons with disabilities and persons overcoming life challenges through job training, employment placement, career counseling, financial education and other related services. Goodwill has a longstanding commitment to operating an inclusive workplace staffed by employees with and without disabilities. And that’s why I never second-guess shopping at this secondhand store, especially during ugly sweater season.

Six holiday sweaters
Photo credit: Nationaluglychristmassweaterday.org (via Facebook)

When to Dress the Part

Whether you’re attending an ugly sweater party, visiting Santa Claus with the kids or tackling holiday shopping, ugly Christmas sweaters magically work for all occasions during the holiday season. Plus, there’s actually an official day of recognition for this beloved seasonal style. National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day is celebrated annually on the third Friday of December (which, this year, falls on December 16, 2022). So go ahead and dress ugly! Because this funny fashion statement is equal parts silly (igniting Christmas joy) and serious (supporting our disability community via purchasing power).

Happy holidays!

Here similar related articles that we think you’ll like: 

Bring on the RACKet to Boost Christmas Cheer

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As a writer, I love a cleverly worded acronym, pun or slogan. A few years back, I discovered the abbreviation “RACK” which stands for Random Acts of Christmas Kindness. Since RACK has social media accounts, you know it’s official (well, sort of)! And I officially love it ─ both the acronym and the challenge to positively pay it forward, especially within our disability community during the holiday season.

RACK is as equally beneficial for the implementer as it is for the recipient. Scientific research suggests that kindness actually changes the brain, impacts the heart and immune system, and may be an antidote to depression. Teaching kindness in the home can instill important qualities within your child (and adults for that matter), like compassion and bravery, especially as we strive to promote inclusivity. And I’m sure that practicing RACK bids kindly to those focused on Santa’s “Naughty or Nice” list.

Implementing Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

Consider planning a schedule of specific kind acts. For example, one daily RACK using the advent calendar. Log onto RackTheWorld.weebly.com for RACK suggestions and to download a “You’ve been RACK’d” notecard to leave behind for receivers to encourage them to bring on the RACKet too.

To help you get started, AmeriDisability has compiled a list of RACK ideas for you. Hmm, perhaps we’ll count this creation as one of our own RACK accomplishments! Share your ideas with us on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).

25 Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

  1. Educate yourself about different types of disabilities. Then, help foster inclusivity by promoting awareness of various disabilities to others.
  2. Pay for someone’s coffee or meal at a drive-through.
  3. Deliver a hot chocolate to a Salvation Army bell ringer.
  4. Give a lottery ticket to a stranger.
  5. Donate new or used books (or other supplies) to a library, school or nonprofit.
  6. Leave change in a vending machine or newspaper rack.
  7. Give a blanket or toiletries to a homeless individual.
  8. Bring Lifesaver candies to a fire/police station.
  9. Rake your neighbor’s yard, shovel snow from their driveway or return their trash bins from the curb.
  10. Donate your remaining vacation days to another employee in need (if permitted by your workplace’s human resources policy).
  11. Offer a bottle of water or a healthy snack to household service workers (lawn maintenance, exterminator, pool tech, etc.).
  12. Pick up litter in your neighborhood or community park.
  13. Write thank you notes to a mentor, special education teacher or other important people (sports coach, faith counselor, therapist, etc.).
  14. Take pet supplies to the animal shelter.
  15. Do a household chore for another family member.
  16. Donate canned/boxed goodies to a food pantry.
  17. Offer candy canes to store clerks and restaurant waiters.
  18. Post a compliment or kind message on a friend’s social media page.
  19. Provide coloring books and crayons to a children’s hospital or pediatrician’s office, or large-print puzzle books to senior living facilities.
  20. Say thanks or fist-bump the janitor, cafeteria worker or another person deserving of appreciation.
  21. Stash extra dollar bills in the aisles at the Dollar Store.
  22. Wrap presents for a busy loved one.
  23. Let someone go ahead of you in line.
  24. Say a prayer for someone in need.
  25. Donate to a disability-serving charity.

Now go bring on the RACKet!

For similar content, read: 

Tips for Preparing Children with Autism for COVID-19 Vaccine

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While many parents are delighted that the COVID-19 vaccine is now available for children younger than 12, many youngsters are terrified by the prospect of getting a shot. This is especially true for some children with special needs. Justine Butler, a Registered Nurse who works at one of May Institute’s schools for children with autism and developmental disabilities in Massachusetts, offers the following advice to families who want to make vaccination appointments successful:

Check:

Check in with yourself as the parent or guardian. Are you anxious, nervous or fearful? Try to remain calm. This can help your child remain calm as well.

Check in with your child’s provider and see if they recommend pre-medicating with an over-the-counter pain reliever or using a topical numbing cream/spray. One non-pharmacological suggestion, according to the May Institute, is using a Buzzy, a small hand-held device that creates a cooling vibration, or buzzing, when placed on the skin. The device is placed near the injection site from slightly before to right after the shot is administered.

child with teddy bear

Collaborate:

Before the appointment, call the office and see if your child’s provider can help you create a schedule of tasks or list of steps that will occur during the appointment. Talk your child through each step. You may find it helpful to use a video or social stories that depict children having a positive experience when receiving a shot.

Collaborate with the provider and share what is challenging for your child. Ask about accommodations such as beginning or end-of-day appointments, extra support staff or practice visits. It is okay to ask the provider to take breaks and to go slowly.

Commit:

Commit to your plan and goal of helping your child have a successful vaccination experience. During the appointment, try to remain calm and reassuring. Allow your child to move and find a comfortable position. Some children may want to stand, be held, sit or lie down for the vaccination. You might want to encourage your child to “shake out the sillies” before getting the shot by shaking arms, hands and legs in a silly way.

Lastly, reward your child after the appointment. Some children may need frequent reinforcement such as a small treat or sticker after each stage of the experience.

child hugging parent

May Institute is a nonprofit organization that is a national leader in the field of applied behavior analysis, serving individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, brain injury and neurobehavioral disorders, and other special needs. Founded more than 65 years ago, May Institute provides a wide range of exceptional educational and rehabilitative services across the lifespan. May Institute operates four schools for children and adolescents with ASD and other developmental disabilities. www.mayinstitute.org

Seeking more content related to COVID-19? Read these articles: 

  1. Debilitating Migraines and Headaches Significantly Spike During Coronavirus Pandemic, But Treatment Awaits
  2. COVID-19 Increases Stroke Risk, according to an Orlando Neurologist
  3. 10 Disability-Friendly Face Masks & Coverings

Holiday Tips for People Living with Overactive Bladder (OAB)

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You’re sharing a great conversation with friends at a holiday party when it hits you: You need to go… and you need to go NOW. As you make a clumsy exit, unsure if you’ll be able to make it to the bathroom in time, you may ask yourself for the thousandth time, “Is this normal?”

Well, you’re not alone. More than 30 million Americans 40 and older live with the symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). That’s about 1-in-10 people and as many as 40% of women in the United States. Yet many do not seek help from a physician for their symptoms. Rather, many continue to cope with the symptoms and navigate their lives around their symptoms of OAB.

“People – both men and women – are reluctant to mention OAB concerns to their doctors. It’s embarrassing for them to discuss the topic,” said Dr. Cornelia Haag-Molkenteller, a clinically trained urologist and executive vice president and chief medical officer at Urovant Sciences, Inc. “Because of the stigma, many patients do not seek out medical treatments that are available to help manage the symptoms that have a limiting effect on their lives.”

senior woman smiling

Identifying an Overactive Bladder Condition

OAB is a common lower urinary tract or bladder health problem that can cause incontinence, which is the leaking of urine that cannot be controlled.

Symptoms of OAB may include urgency, meaning a sudden need to urinate immediately; frequency, which is defined as urinating more than eight times per day; urge incontinence, or urine leakage following a sudden urge.

There are many causes of OAB, including taking certain medications and being overweight. Your risk also increases if you have had a stroke or have Alzheimer’s disease.

Managing an Overactive Bladder

According to the American Urological Association, the first step in managing OAB is behavior modification. That means patients should talk with their health care providers to learn about the benefits of new habits, such as restricting fluid intake, reducing sodium and limiting alcohol consumption, for example.

If changing some habits does not work, the next step is usually oral pharmacological therapies. A third option (available if medications don’t work) is medical procedures to manage symptoms. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of overactive bladder, talk to your doctor and ask for help managing the condition.

women driving in car

Practical Tips to Help Manage OAB

Here are some helpful tips to manage your symptoms over the holiday.

Travel

* Stop every 2-4 hours to help reduce strain on your bladder.
* Drink plenty of water but limit your intake a few hours before traveling.
* Kegel exercises can help improve OAB symptoms.
* Wear an absorbent pad that can hold more liquid on your travel days.
* Book an aisle seat near the bathroom.

Diet

Drink six to eight glasses of fluid, 8-ounce each daily. However, avoid foods and beverages that can irritate the bladder including:

* Caffeinated beverages and foods
* Alcohol
* Spicy foods
* Citrus fruits and juices
* Carbonated beverages
* Dairy
* Sugar, honey or artificial sweeteners

Want more holiday content? Give these articles a read: 

Source: Family Features

The Gift of No Gifts: Presence is the Best Present for You and the Earth

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During the most wonderful time of the year, you may notice iconic green and red hues everywhere you look. But, in reality, the holidays can be far from “green” or eco-friendly. Think about all the waste that accumulates during the season and harms our planet. Global warming will impact the temperature of the North Pole (and all of Earth). And that means the issue will affect everyone, including our disability community because climate change does not discriminate.

Embracing an eco-friendly lifestyle can be trickier for people living with disabilities. Certain things that we need and want to live life to the fullest and/or independently aren’t always environmentally friendly. And, frankly, that’s nothing to feel guilty about. Some people can and have shifted to greener disability-serving products, like rechargeable hearing aids or straws made of bamboo or metal. But sometimes alternatives simply aren’t applicable or easily accessible. And maybe, one day, more eco-friendly options will become available for inclusion products.

Still, for now, we’re “making a list and checking it twice” for ways to embrace going “green” this holiday season, if and when possible.

baby with down syndrome dressed as elf

Here are some eco-conscious ideas.

  1. Double Click on Greeting Card Sending.

This digital greeting of e-cards is eco-friendly, plus it’ll save you both time (with the elimination of penning cards/envelopes) and also save money (no need for postage stamps). Talk about a 3-4-1 holiday bargain! I admit, I enjoy receiving Christmas and Hanukkah cards snail-mail style and I’m not ready to join the trend of informal seasons greetings via social media platforms. So I may use cards made from recycled paper or go with a photo card that could be kept as a keepsake. Plus, cards can be repurposed into homemade gift tags.

  1. Do Good with Decorations.

Don’t just toss old decorations. Rather, explore donation options. Pass them along to a friend, secondhand store or a nonprofit organization.

  1. Attempt Tree Trimmings beyond Christmas.

Contact your local recycling center to see if area programs convert used Christmas trees into mulch.

  1. Wrap Excess Wrapping Paper Use.

Gift bags may be a better choice compared to wrapping paper because bags can be reused, whereas paper is commonly ripped and tossed. And don’t shy away from using household alternatives, like newspaper (bonus for holiday comics) and paper grocery bags.

  1. Don’t Leave a Paper Trail!

More and more stores offer receipts via text or email. This method decreases paper copies that end up trashed.

  1. Become a Sustainable Shopper.

You’re in control of your purchasing power! Choose brands that use eco-friendly materials. Or, when applicable, gift homemade presents crafted with love. I am definitely going to explore sensory crafting ideas with my son to utilize as grandparent gifts.

Christmas tree with toy truck and gift

Drum roll please for my favorite eco-friendly effort…

  1. Gift No Gifts!

I do like giving purposeful gifts on occasion and receiving them too. But holiday shopping can be all-consuming. And have you ever evaluated why you purchase so many gifts? You may buy for your partner, children, colleagues, neighbors, miscellaneous relatives, friends and household service workers. It can be A LOT – in every sense of the word. My husband and I haven’t exchanged Christmas presents with each other for many years. We’ve decided that, for several reasons, we actually maximize our merriment by minimizing gifts. Before you label us “The Grinch Couple,” here is why the gift of no gifts is valuable:

Read more:- Think and explore

Reason for the Season: People exchange gifts for many reasons. Obligation? Um, maybe you really don’t want to get anything for your boss. Tradition? Well, backing out of the family secret Santa swap could seem rude. Joy? Yes, finding the perfect thing for a loved one can be priceless.

For some, holiday gifts connect to when the Three Wise Men brought gold, frankincense and myrrh to Jesus after his birth in the manger. Additionally, it is believed that Saint Nicholas gave gifts to the poor. In the present day, of course, Santa Claus rewards children who’ve behaved well. So, I have pondered… “Is it really Christmas without presents? Am I a Scrooge?” NO! In fact, decreasing presents has granted me the opportunity to be more present during the holidays than ever before. And with the hustle and bustle of life, especially with a child with disabilities, that really means something.

Good Tidings of Time: For many of us, time is much more valuable than stuff that comes with a receipt. Instead of spending hours shopping for loved ones, I have more time to experience jolly jubilation with them. Rather than spending hours in big box stores, we can spend quality time together marveling at neighborhood Christmas lights, attending holiday happenings, decorating allergen-free cookies, doing sensory-friendly crafts, etc.

Seasonal Sanity: Let’s face it ─ holiday stress can bring out the worst in people (i.e. Black Friday stampedes and parking lot scuffles). Wouldn’t you love to eliminate the angst of return lines, bargain bins and that lengthy shopping checklist? Listen, Santa’s elves can’t gift-wrap your sanity and put it under the tree. Preserving your sanity could be a Christmas miracle! And as a mama within our disability community, perhaps my sanity should be prioritized.

Holiday socks near fireplace

Festive Fun: Instead of investing in gifts, how about investing in one another by embracing old traditions and making new ones? Much of this goes back to time, as previously noted. On Christmas morning, for example, without time spent opening gifts, I enjoy lounging in matching pajamas, making Santa-shaped gluten-free pancakes and listening to my little ones sing carols. We’ll be able to get to the family party earlier too, which will increase opportunities for more connecting. And while my family is generous to my children, I’ve asked them to limit the number of gifts and be conscious of the types of gifts they present. Does my kid really need yet another huge plastic car (that we can barely cut free from the plastic packaging)? Research indicates that experiences make us happier than things do because, in part, they create bonds and memories. For example, my children loved getting a membership to the sensory-stimulating science center; and I loved sneaking away for a Christmas-colored mani-pedi with my gal pals.

Frosty Financials: According to the American Research Group, shoppers around the country spend an average of $1,000 on holiday gifts. Wowzer! It’s easy to talk about money with my spouse so I had no hesitation communicating that I’d rather redirect funds from stocking stuffers to connective date nights, enriching vacations and necessary home repairs. Talking to others about money can feel awkward. It’s not exactly merry to tell someone, “I don’t want to spend money on you” or “I am short on cash this season” or “I want to invest in myself.” Over time, I have become more comfortable telling people that I’m scaling back on gifts and hope they understand. You can offer an explanation but you don’t have to. If you want to exchange, consider setting clear guidelines about budget and gift type.

My sister-in-law’s extended family started a tradition of charitable giving instead of gift-giving. Each person contributes whatever amount they see fit to the chosen nonprofit. And each year, a different person gets to choose the organization. Do good-feel good gifts are amazing! Like this idea? Check out our article titled “Disability-Serving Nonprofits Can Be Year-Round Gift-Givers With Your Support” for a list of Santa-approved organizations.

giving hands

Hopefully, expressing my genuine well wishes of “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah,”  and “Happy Holidays” is more valued than discounted scented bath soaps. My anticipation of Santa’s arrival is ever-present as I cherish the gifts of no gifts: family, faith, love and kindness. How else are you going green this holiday season? Share with AmeriDisability in the comments below.

Must-Try Christmas Cookie Companies Run By Bakers with Disabilities

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‘Tis the season for sweets and, more specifically, Christmas cookies! Whether you need cookies for holiday exchanges, hostess gifts or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth, cookie delivery companies may help to simplify your already packed holiday schedule. And, for an added cherry on top, we’ve discovered professional cookie companies run by talented foodies with disabilities.

The following four cookie companies each strive to fill our communities with skilled employees of all abilities… all while filling bellies with deliciousness.

Collettey’s Cookies

“Changing the world one cookie at a time” may sound like a simple, sweet slogan to some. But, in reality, it’s a serious business strategy addressing disability representation in the workforce. Owner Collette Divitto shares that it pains her to know that over 80% of people with a disability that are capable of work cannot find paying jobs – a statistic she, an adult with Down syndrome, was once a part of. Described as a “tough cookie” by many, Divitto started stirring cookie batter and stirring up conversation about inclusion.

Collette Divitto, owner of Collettey’s Cookies, employs people with disabilities.

Divitto has earned accolades as a disability advocate and speaker and, of course, as a baker. Her signature cookie, The Amazing Cookie, is packed with chocolate chips and cinnamon (available in regular or gluten-free). Other cookie flavors, using organic ingredients, include peanut butter, oatmeal raisin and an unexpected breakfast cookie.

Collettey’s online shop features multiple cookie order options, company swag and themed gift packets. Two holiday cookie packets feature Christmas décor in addition to the sweet treats; plus Collettey’s sells a holiday doggie treat basket too.

South Fork Bakery

Five years ago, Shirley Ruch founded South Fork Bakery to kick-start meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. As a speech and language pathologist focused on children with autism, Ruch recognized that her former students struggled to find work after high school. So, she whipped up a purposeful baking effort. She explains that she already incorporated cooking and baking into therapy practice, as it fostered socialization and direction-following.

South Fork Bakery employs 16 workers with autism and other disabilities, as well as a professional baker and special education teacher.

This holiday season, South Fork Bakery is making gift-giving and cookie exchanges easier than ever with three holiday cookie basket size options: large (48 cookies) at $105, medium (24 cookies) at $50 and small (16 cookies) at $40. Assortments flavors include gingersnap, wheat-free oatmeal raisin, wheat-free chocolate chip, blondie bars, wheat-free chocolate chunky brownies and peppermint brownies. Beyond the holidays, South Fork features party platters and cookie packets with individually-wrapped goodies, vegan/gluten-free “em-power” bars and more.

Reason to Bake

Want to leave something other than chocolate chip cookies on a plate for Santa Claus? Reason to Bake suggests its White Chocolate Cranberry, bursting with the juicy tartness of cranberries, melt-in-your-mouth white chocolate chips and a light cookie texture. Reason to Bake is an artisan small-batch bakery in the North Carolina Appalachian Mountains, specializing in gluten-free, all-natural cookies that are freshly made from scratch and available to ship around the country.

This company was founded by a mother-daughter team, Elise Sampson and Carolyn Sampson, with a mission to foster entrepreneurship among young adults with intellectual disabilities. Carolyn, who has Down syndrome, infuses creative flavors into her gluten-free cookie line, such as Spicy Ginger Cookie and Cranberry Oatmeal Cookie, in addition to a decadent Chocolate Chip. Reason to Bake cookie boxes and variety packs are a sweet find for the holidays or any other occasion.

Kenosha Awesome Cookies

Kenosha Awesome Cookies makes scrumptious cookie kits to delight Wisconsin residents (local sales only). They operate out of the Kenosha Achievement Center (KAC), which provides services and programming for adults and children with special needs. Last December, with a rolling pin in hand, KAC rolled out an initiative to develop job skills that could seamlessly transfer to community settings and workplaces.

kenosha cookies
KAC elves only made 200 of these limited-edition holiday jars. Order now while supplies last.

Each cookie-baking kit created by Kenosha Awesome Cookies consists of one 16- or 32-ounce Mason jar filled with the dry ingredients needed to freshly bake cookies. Customers just need to add the ingredients listed on the label of the jar and pop into a warm oven to achieve ooey-gooey goodness. This season’s featured flavor is Dark Chocolate Peppermint! This limited-edition option is priced at $6.50 for a ready-to-stir 16-ounce jar. If you live in the Kenosha area, order via email at kenoawesomecookies@thekac.com or call (262) 658-9500. Other flavor choices include dark chocolate peanut butter, white chocolate lemon, triple chocolate chip and M&M’s.

Happy holidays… And happy snacking!

Header image courtesy of Collettey’s Cookies (via Facebook). 

Thanksgiving Safety Kibbles & Bits for Service Dogs, Companion Animals & Pets

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Thanksgiving inspires reflection on what we cherish. For those with service dogs, companion animals and/or pets, this includes an appreciation of feathered and furred loved ones. While focused on turkey legs, remember to stay attentive to the safety needs of four-legged companions! Here are animal-focused precautions for autumn’s gratitude gatherings:

  1. Bowwow buffet: Since some people foods are toxic for animals, consider sticking to a “no table food” approach, or giving seasonal made-for-pet treats. If you decide to offer Fido a Thanksgiving meal, plate a small amount of skinless, fully-cooked turkey with plain green beans. A lick of potatoes and pumpkin pie may be OK too, especially if dairy-free. Be mindful of potentially risky Thanksgiving ingredients, according to ASPCA, like nuts topping casseroles which may cause vomiting, diarrhea and pancreatitis in animals; onions, garlic and chives in mashed potatoes which may also cause gastrointestinal irritation, plus red blood cell damage and anemia; and chocolate, raisins and artificial sweeteners (xylitol) in some desserts which could result in abnormal heart rhythm, kidney failure and seizures.
  2. Canine clean up: Ensure that trash bins are snuggly shut to curb your pup’s temptation to dumpster dive for turkey carcasses. Raw meat, fatty bits (including skin) and bones pose risk of salmonella, digestion issues or worse. While you may be inclined to let the dishes sit to allow for more visitation with guests, do remove dirty baking dishes from the counter and sink and stow in the dishwasher. That’s because raw eggs and yeast in raw dough can lead to life-threatening complications for companion animals and pets.
  3. Hostess hound: Some floras are hazardous to animals, such as amaryllis, Baby’s Breath, hydrangeas, some ferns and Holly’s and more. When guests present a hostess gift, position flower vases out of animals’ reach.
  4. Festive firefighters (Dalmatians and all): You love seasonal scents, like apple cider, cinnamon and pumpkin spice; but fragrant candles can overwhelm pets’ senses and even ignite hazards. When your curious companion is near, use caution lighting candles, toasting marshmallows over an open fire or sipping cocoa beside a fire pit.

service dog in park 5. Tail-wagging time: The season’s time change means darkness comes earlier. Utilize a reflective collar on walks. And, while temperatures have cooled, pavements can still be hot on delicate paws.

6. Stray away: Hectic holiday celebrations often means frequent entering or existing. Stay aware of your animal’s access to doors and ensure that tag identifications and microchips are up-to-date.

7. Tyke travel: Holiday travel should include plans for companion animals and pets too. Health certificates and therapy animal requirements vary by state and country. Of course, confirm that booked accommodations are pet-friendly. If boarding a pet, ask your veterinarian about the risk of canine flu and other concerns. Car-riding restraints like pet seat belts, carriers or barriers might be useful on road trips.

8. Furry fashion: If you love dressing your fur baby up, you might be eyeing a pilgrim or turkey costume for Thanksgiving. Animal attire should not be too snug or baggy, restrict mobility or breathing, or hinder the ability to go to the bathroom or communicate. Costumes should be free of choking hazards (i.e. beads, feathers, etc.).

If you suspect that your service dog, companion animal and/or pet has ingested a harmful ingredient, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. And yes, your animal is thankful for you too! All that tail-wagging and purring proves it.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Feature image courtesy of Rover. A version of this article was originally published by Natural Awakenings.

Stay Healthy & Thankful Eating Thanksgiving Staples All Year Long

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Overflowing with heavy dishes, the Thanksgiving meal can leave you feeling more stuffed than a turkey! But it doesn’t have to. In fact, you don’t have to waste your time worrying about expanding waistbands. Rather, expand your appreciation of Thanksgiving staples by gobbling up healthier approaches to this annual feast.

Don’t Wing Portion Control of Thanksgiving Staples

Americans take in 3,000 to 4,500 calories during Thanksgiving dinner, as estimated by the Calorie Control Council. That means this one festive feast serves up more calories than most people eat in a day — even double for some! That’s why it’s essential to focus less on what you eat versus how much you consume and how it’s prepared.

When using traditional recipes containing creams and added sugars, opt for smaller portions to allow ample plate space for healthier fare. For example, you’ll sacrifice fat (not flavor and creaminess) when using low-fat buttermilk or low-sodium chicken stock in place of cream or whole milk in mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Maybe try working in mashed cauliflower into mashed potatoes for a lighter bite.

And, of course, there’s no rule that all Thanksgiving staples have be served in mashed or casserole form. A more whole and less-processed form might be gobbled up at your table just the same. This also applies to green beans. You could smother them with a can of thick, mushroom soup as usual, but maybe you should toss them in a light citrus vinaigrette instead.

friends cooking together

Color Code Your Thanksgiving Staples

Ever notice that many Thanksgiving staples are sort of bland in color and, well, served mushy? As with any meal, create a food rainbow comprised of vibrant colors. Perhaps that means less brown gravy… and more cranberry (red), sweet potato (orange), squash (yellow), beans/sprouts (green) and purple carrots (blue/purple). Eating diverse, nutrient-packed produce helps to control weight, blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and cancer; while combating post-meal guilt.

Thanksgiving Staples to Celebrate Year-Round

  • Turkey is a great source of protein because it’s leaner than most red meat and even chicken. A 3-ounce portion of roasted skinless turkey breast contains only 3 grams of fat and is naturally low in sodium, containing less than 25 milligrams per ounce, according to the National Federation of Turkeys. You may only roast a whole bird once a year, but turkey (ground, sliced, etc.) should remain a go-to staple.
  • Sweet potatoes boast vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber that can make a tasty side dish or dessert. Rather than serving casserole-style using heavy cream and sugary marshmallows, explore ingredients like ginger, orange zest, cinnamon and a pinch of brown sugar. Year-round, sweet potatoes are yummy as French fries, veggie oodles, basic roasted (or microwaved) and in pancake batter.
  • Canned cranberry sauce is loaded with sugar, but homemade chutneys work on holidays and year-round — from topping turkey to toast (like a jam). Smash fresh cranberries and combine with apple or orange juice, honey or white balsamic vinegar to achieve desired sweetness. Like other berries, antioxidant-rich cranberries aid the body’s digestive health and promote good heart-health, even possibly improving blood pressure, cholesterol and lowered risk of cancer. If dried cranberries are your go-to for salad toppings or baking, note that one cup of chopped raw cranberries contains 14.6 milligrams of vitamin C per serving, while one cup of dried cranberries contains 0.3 milligrams.

Sweet potatoes, and other Thanksgiving staples, can be health

  • Butternut squash, according to UF/IFAS Extension, has an impressive nutrition profile containing vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber and phytochemicals. It provides 582 milligrams of potassium in one serving which is better than the 422 milligrams found in a banana. Butternut squash is delicious in multiple forms, including soups and stews. If you have a picky eater, puree butternut squash to sneak into tomato sauce for pasta dishes.
  • Brussels sprouts are a good source of vitamins C and K, folate, carotenoids and fiber. Forgo the artery-clogging bacon bits and, instead, top with brain-boosting walnuts or pine nuts, tossed with olive oil, apple cider vinegar and a bit of salt. While this vegetable omits a strong smell when cooked, it surely can maintain a strong body year-round.
  • Pumpkin is low in fat and calories, and loaded with potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. Using a low-sugar recipe, make pumpkin pies with canned, evaporated fat-free milk, a graham cracker crust and light or fat-free whipped topping. Keep a can in your pantry to whip into muffins or breads beyond the fall season. Of course, you can swap out decadent Thanksgiving pies for baked apples or poached pears.
  • Bread is the star of traditional stuffing but recipes using cornbread are better as corn meal is a whole grain. Lighten the dish with onions, celery, carrots and apples, rather than using fatty sausage.
  • Gravy can be less greasy if you use a fat separator or refrigerate the pan juices and skim the fat off before making gravy.

Pumpkin chocolate bread, thanksgiving staples

Game Day Strategy for Thanksgiving 

Plan to come to the Thanksgiving table hungry, but not starving. If you skip breakfast or lunch, your famished state may lead to overindulgence. Have a sensible breakfast, like yogurt and fruit, and light lunch, like salad or a broth-based soup. And don’t fill up on heavy appetizers or go crazy on holiday drink refills.

Finally, after your Thanksgiving meal, it’s time to shake a tail feather! Research by the American Heart Association shows that you can gain about two hours of life expectancy for every hour of regular, vigorous exercise that you do. That’s a great 2-4-1 deal. Once you’ve fueled your body with healthier holiday selections, hit the pavement for a walk. Bonus points for briskly wobbling like a turkey! And football fans can use half-times for post-turkey pigskin scrimmages in the yard too.

Why this Nutritional Guidance is Needed, Especially within the Disability Community

Obesity is a major health concern in our country; and, unfortunately, some people with disabilities are at a greater risk of obesity. Here are some alarming statistics:

  • Children and adults with mobility limitations and intellectual or learning disabilities are at greatest risk for obesity.
  • 20% of children 10 through 17 years of age who have special health care needs are obese compared with 15% of children of the same ages without special health care needs.
  • Annual health care costs of obesity that are related to disability are estimated at approximately $44 billion.

What Can Be Done?

Obesity is a complex problem that requires a strong call for action, at many levels, for both adults as well as children. Just educating yourself with this article is a great step, and especially if you take these tips to heart.

Also try to:
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables and fewer foods high in fat and sugar.
  • Drink more water instead of sugary drinks.
  • Watch less television.
  • Be more physically active.

Evidence shows that regular physical activity provides important health benefits for people with disabilities. Benefits include improved cardiovascular and muscle fitness, mental health, balance and a better ability to do tasks of daily life.

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays!

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A portion of this article was originally published by Natural Awakenings