January 21, 2021
Marnie Omichinski speaks about her new venture with a passion that is infectious.
Last fall, this busy working mom began The Inclusion Project apparel line. Her motivation is to build awareness and support around autism and to create a sense of community for herself and her family. It is dedicated to individuals and families touched by autism spectrum disorder.
Her daughter Kate, now eight years old, was diagnosed with autism at two and a half. Marnie recalls feeling terrified and alone as she began to search for resources, support and information.
Her search led her to St.Amant and the Early Learning program. Kate received daily one-to-one learning sessions from a St.Amant Autism tutor for two years prior to entering kindergarten. This service “changed their life”, says Marnie.
The support Kate and her family received improved their communication, helped Kate reach the major potty training milestone and provided tools for some of Marnie’s important safety concerns. Most importantly, it boosted Kate’s confidence and set her up for success.
The autism apparel line is Marnie’s way of creating ambassadors for autism awareness, spreading kindness and giving back to charities that support people with disabilities. Knowing all too well the lack of funding available, it was important to her to donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of all the “Inclusion Crew” apparel to a non-profit. This spring, St.Amant Foundation is the chosen recipient.
The mission of The Inclusion Project is advocating for awareness, inclusion and acceptance and it feels like a full circle moment that she can now use this platform to give back to St.Amant. This spring, St.Amant Foundation is the chosen charity, and proceeds will support the Early-Learning autism programs classrooms.
To pre-order apparel and become part of the inclusion movement, CLICK HERE. Orders must be received before February 1. Marnie is also offering a 10% discount to St.Amant friends and family. Just use the code STAMANT10 at checkout.
“Last night Kate read me a twenty three page children’s book and, a few years ago, I was not sure that would ever happen” Marnie says with a smile. Knowing that the money raised from this project will help support families like hers is very motivating and fulfilling. Marnie stresses this isn’t a money making enterprise, but rather a way to spread inclusion and kindness and to let other families touched by autism know that they aren’t alone.
