Join us on a thought-provoking journey as we delve into the world of community psychology and the significance of mobilizing and engaging the disability community. In this captivating podcast, we sit down with Dr. Mark Salzer, a renowned licensed clinical community psychologist and professor in the College of Public Health at Temple University. Dr. Salzer shares his personal experiences and insights that led him to the field of mental health and his unwavering commitment to fostering community inclusion. Through engaging conversations, we explore the fundamental questions: What is community participation, and why is it crucial? Dr. Salzer guides us in understanding the transformative power of creating environments that not only tolerate but genuinely welcome individuals with disabilities. Discover the profound impact that active involvement and inclusion can have on people's lives, enabling them to experience a true sense of belonging, unity, and harmony within their communities.

With a mission to connect, engage, and empower individuals, Dr. Mark Salzer shares valuable strategies for increasing community participation and fostering inclusivity. Drawing from his extensive expertise, he provides practical insights on how we can create stronger, more supportive communities that value the unique contributions and perspectives of all their members. Tune in to this enlightening podcast, as we uncover the importance of community engagement, the power of inclusion, and the transformative potential within each of us to create a society that celebrates diversity and strengthens through unity.

Dr. Mark Salzer, PhD, is a distinguished professor at Temple University's College of Public Health. He has served as the principal investigator and director of the Temple University RRTC on Community Living and Participation for People with Serious Mental Illnesses since 2003. With over $30 million in federally funded research grants, Dr. Salzer has made substantial contributions to effective community mental health and rehabilitation services. He has published extensively, delivered over 450 presentations worldwide, and received prestigious awards for his impactful work. As a department chair, Dr. Salzer led significant achievements in student enrollment, faculty recruitment, and research funding. He has played pivotal roles in various committees, accreditation efforts, and grant review panels. Dr. Salzer's collaboration with government and community agencies has resulted in millions of dollars in new service grants, solidifying his commitment to improving mental health support.

Episode Resources:

• The Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion: https://www.tucollaborative.org/