Inclusion means to me, that anybody can join.

By: Lauren Kelly

My name is Lauren Kelly, I am 36 years old. At Garden I participate in Able Chef and then go out into the community. I am also a mentor! I traveled with The Traveling Gnomes to Boulder for the girls overnight, Seattle, Washington, and Snow Mountain Ranch in Winter Park.

I prepare for trips by looking at what the activities are, then making sure that I have the right clothing to wear. I also double check to make sure that I have enough time to be at the airport or train station before we go on a trip. I feel really great going on trips with The Traveling Gnomes, because I’ve loved to travel since I was younger. I don’t feel nervous at all going on trips and feel safe at all times with my friends.

My favorite moment during a Traveling Gnomes trip was going to the top of the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington. I also really loved going to the fish market at Pikes Place and looking at everything. I liked experiencing and seeing a new city. I also had so much fun in Winter Park, CO going down the summer tubing hill with friends. We have a good time on all of our trips, especially at the at the talent show. I was able to conquer my fears by going on the largest Ferris wheel in Seattle.

I am also an ambassador for The Traveling Gnomes. Being an ambassador is really good. I love telling everybody what we do and sharing my opinion on the trips with them. Inclusion means to me, that anybody can join. No matter if you have a disability or not. Being a traveler is a good thing. I can teach other people. I love to travel to new places. I can’t wait to traveling with gnomes in the future. It is a great way to travel. I am glad that I get to go on adventures. I would recommend it to anybody.