S3e11: Taylor Gardner – We Are More Alike Than Different

Taylor Gardner is a passionate person with a big heart who feels deeply. In this episode, she vulnerably shares how she navigated the Process with so much passion.

Taylor describes herself as a driven, compassionate, and goal-oriented entrepreneur. The focus of her work in the world changed when she found herself frustrated with the lack of resources and limited opportunities for her sister Lindsay and Lindsay’s peers.

Lindsay has Downs Syndrome. As a young adult just out of school, there were few opportunities awaiting Lindsay. Taylor decided to do something about it. In April of 2017, she planted the seeds of The Garden Foundation – a non-profit that serves those with disabilities.

The story of Taylor’s Process is also one of deep grief. During the Process, Taylor was able to fully grieve her father’s death. Through her deep work there, she found a sense of peace for the first time since her father’s passing. She allowed herself to ‘go to that place’ we both fear and long for because we know we will find healing there.

More about Taylor Gardner:

Taylor is the Founder and CEO of both  The Garden Foundation and Tribe Inclusive. The Garden Foundation supports and enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing a place of education, inspiration, independence, and inclusion. Tribe Inclusive is a national online learning platform.

Taylor has served on boards for the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada and the Young Professional Board for Opportunity Village. She’s also served as the Inclusion Officer for Local for All. Taylor also managed the Las Vegas Learning Program for the Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada, a supplemental educational program for children with Down Syndrome.

Taylor, through The Garden Foundation LV, founded World Inclusion Day on October 10th. She continues to provide a place of inspiration, education, independence, and inclusion* for those with different abilities and their families.

The National Association of Women Business Owners in Southern Nevada recognized Taylor as a ‘Woman of Distinction.’ She currently serves on the Nevada Governor’s Council for Developmental Disabilities.

As mentioned in this episode:

What is Down’s Syndrome?

If you’re wondering how to relate to kids/people with special needs or disabilities:

How to Help Your Child Relate to Kids With Special Needs

Just Say Hi: Communicating Effectively with People Who Have Disabilities

Video: How to not be awkward when interacting with those with disabilities.

Symptoms & Stages of Grief

* Inclusion: “Inclusion is bigger than just disabilities. It’s accepting and celebrating differences of cultures, backgrounds, races, sexes, religions, and differences in perspectives.”