BBJ Leaders in Diversity
On June 13, 2024 Laila’s Gift Founder and CEO, Shari Bailey, was recognized by the Baltimore Business Journal (BBJ) as an honoree for its annual Leaders in Diversity Awards.
Bailey was recognized for the work she is doing through Laila’s Gift to build more inclusive communities and experiences for families with children with diverse disabilities.
“Our core mission is to create a world where every child is celebrated and embraced, surrounded by a strong network of support,” Bailey shared with the BBJ. “Because of Laila, I better understand the need for a more diverse world, a world that needs more advocates to fight for acceptance and inclusion. Through all our initiatives, we actively show the value of embracing differences. We’re not simply promoting awareness and acceptance of those with special needs.”
With over 20 years of progressive global leadership experience in the healthcare manufacturing industry, she has gained a deep understanding of what people need. Through all of Laila’s Gift’s projects and events, Bailey actively demonstrates the value of embracing differences.
Bailey founded the organization in 2022 and to date has served more than 775 families.
Laila’s Gift Celebration & Advocacy Center
In January, the organization opened Laila’s Gift Celebration & Advocacy Center in Harford County, and in May launched its Blooming Inclusiveness Initiative and event series which promotes inclusiveness for individuals with diverse abilities through the arts. The series will include the Seeds of Inclusion event where families can plant sunflower seeds. A sunflower festival will be held in the fall to see the gorgeous sunflowers that have grown and become a representation of individuals with diverse abilities. The series will end with a gala in October to be held at Ripken Stadium where the organization will announce the launch of a national program.
Future Expansion
Bailey plans to expand Laila’s Gift to serve as a hub for families seeking information and access to support services for children with unique, rare and diverse abilities.