Activate Inclusion Day 2026 Recap
This summer, Activate Inclusion Day brought children of all abilities, their siblings, parents, grandparents, and friends together in Austin for a morning built around one simple idea: everyone belongs.
Held at Austin Stone Church South, the free community celebration filled the morning with adaptive soccer, basketball, and improv activities, face painting, lawn games, sno-cones, and an instrument
petting zoo — all designed so every child could play, participate, and connect at their own pace.
Made Possible by Generous Partners
Activate Inclusion Day was made possible thanks to a Centennial Grant from Variety International, along with One Ball for All, who made sure every registered child went home with a free soccer ball. We're also deeply grateful to Austin Stone Church for opening their doors and providing a beautiful, welcoming space, along with the volunteers whose support helped the whole day run smoothly.
Music and Play with Tío Tóto
Families also got to enjoy a bilingual dance party with Tío Tóto, whose interactive singalongs, storytelling, and hands-on Musical Instrument Petting Zoo turned the audience into the show — with kids of all abilities invited to sing, dance, and explore instruments together.
Sensory-Friendly by Design
Every detail of the day was built with accessibility in mind, including a dedicated sensory-friendly space with noise-reducing headphones on hand, so kids could take part in the fun at their own comfort level. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and ASL interpretation were also available throughout the event.
Thank You
Days like this only happen because of a community that shows up for kids of all abilities. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, donated, and celebrated with us — and to everyone who helped make sure every child left with a smile and a soccer ball of their own.
Want to help fund the next Activate Inclusion Day? Support Variety Texas today.
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