Building Belonging Through Ability, Access, and Community

In this episode,Peter Doehring, founder of the Kennett Ability Network and Kennett Outdoors, shares how his daughter Margot and his family’s journey reshaped the way he thinks about inclusion, community participation, and access to the outdoors. Drawing from his experience as a parent, educator, and advocate, Peter reflects on how small, thoughtful changes can open meaningful opportunities for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

From adaptive biking and volunteering around town to hiking trails, beach paths, and ski trips, Peter explains how access to outdoor spaces and community programs can foster connection, confidence, and belonging. He also explores how language, awareness, and everyday interactions shape how welcoming a community truly feels, and why inclusion must move beyond physical access to program design and participation.

Throughout the conversation, Peter highlights the progress Kennett Square has made as a community while acknowledging the practical challenges that remain. His message is ultimately hopeful, calling listeners to notice who is around them, remove barriers where they can, and recognize that inclusive communities are stronger, richer, and more human for everyone.

Highlights from the episode:
• Creating meaningful volunteer opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities
• Adaptive biking, hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation access
• How inclusive language and everyday interactions shape belonging
• Progress and remaining challenges in community-based inclusion
• Practical ways individuals and organizations can open doors to participation