Building Inclusive Communities That Thrive Together - Germán Parodi
In a world increasingly affected by disasters, resilience depends on the inclusion of every community member. Together, we’ll explore the power of inclusive practices and how, in supporting the needs of disabled and marginalized people, we strengthen the fabric of our communities as a whole. We’ll reflect on the importance of equity, accessibility, and community connections that bring us all together in times of crisis and calm alike.
Germán Parodi, with Shaylin Sluzalis, is Co-Executive Director of the Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies. Germán and Shaylin are leaders together; equally in love with, and dedicated to, disability rights, equal access and independence for all. They both come from Independent Living movement and disability rights backgrounds. Germán acquired his spinal cord injury in 2001 and Shaylin has non-apparent disabilities and grew up alongside her disabled sister, Brittani. Both their experiences led them to work for Centers for Independent Living and evolve into disability rights activists with ADAPT where they met and fell in love. Shaylin and Germán's journey in inclusive emergency management began in 2017 when they were deployed to Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria as disabled first responders meeting the needs of disaster-impacted people with disabilities, which now fuels their dedicated and focused work in inclusive emergency management and community resilience as The Partnership's Co-Executive Directors. The pair are confident that together, and with the unity of the disability community, we can change the world to be inclusive for all.
The Share-the-Plate program raises money to give to local agencies which are trying to improve life for Chester County residents.
Eleven times a year, UCWC gives approximately half of the collection plate to a congregation-nominated recipient. Funds are given to small, local organizations for whom our gift is very meaningful in the continuance of their efforts.
The 2024-2025 Recipients
Nov 17 – Baby Food Fund
Dec 15 – Melton Center
Jan 19 – Citizen Advocacy of Chester County
Feb 16 – West Chester University Resource Pantry
Mar 16 – Educational Equity Alliance
Apr 20 – Community Youth and Women’s Alliance
May 18 – Maternal and Child Health Consortium
Jun 15 – West Chester Food Cupboard
Jul 20 – Kennett Area Community Services
Aug 17 – Act in Faith
Sep 21 – Friends Association for the Care and Protection of Children
Oct 19 – UCWC Board Selection
December 15: Bring a Friend Sunday – “In Our Own Directions” – Rev. Dan Schatz
Unitarian Universalism embraces differences of all kinds, creating a powerful community of diversity, mutual support, and love. Members are encouraged to bring a guest for this Sunday when we will explore one of the most important aspects of our free faith.
A Cup of Winter’s Warmth – Rev. Dan Schatz and UCWC Musicians
In the dark of the year, people have long gathered to celebrate, feast, and offer each other the warmth of good company. It can also be a time for quiet reflection and renewal of spirit. In this special service of readings and music, we will celebrate a gentle solstice together.
All Ages Christmas Eve Service
Join us for a very special participatory all ages Christmas Eve service as we tell the age old story of a birth and the holiness of every child. There will be easy roles for all ages (including very young children), and no rehearsal is required.
7pm – Candlelight Christmas Eve Service
We will gather for a traditional Christmas Eve service with readings, carols, music from the Spirit Singers, a Christmas reflection from Rev. Dan Schatz, and the singing of “Silent Night” by candlelight.
For those interested in finding out the latest information on what we can do to quell the national epidemic of gun violence in this country, please contact Tom Buglio by email at gun-safety
On or near the first Sunday in January, many Unitarian Universalist congregations hold a ritual to bid farewell to the old year and to release it. In the words of Rev. Elizabeth Harding, “The fire communion separates the end of the year from the beginning, helping us to put in perspective the joys and sorrows, the changes and transitions, the ups and downs of the year. It’s a half-way point in our church year, but a celebration of the outside calendar’s year’s end and year’s beginning.” Join UCWC members Kathy Beatty & Sandy Schaal as we strive to let go, while setting intentions for new beginnings and possibilities.
