March Captain Spotlight : Cassandra Dean
In the world of birding, accessibility isn't always a given. Cassandra Dean experienced that firsthand and it compelled her to take action. Thanks to passionate individuals like Cassandra Dean, the landscape of inclusive and accessible birding is changing. As a Birdability Captain, Cassandra is on a mission to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the wonders of birding and nature.
Cassandra's journey into the world of birding and accessibility began with a personal struggle. Diagnosed with three autoimmune diseases in 2012, she found that her outdoor activities were becoming increasingly challenging. Working for Nebraska Game and Parks at the time, Cassandra advocated for trail improvements to accommodate individuals with disabilities and has since partnered with the organization in an ongoing effort to create accessibility.
In 2018, Cassandra stumbled upon an article by Audubon featuring Birdability, an initiative led by Virginia Rose, which aimed to make birding more inclusive. Inspired by the concept, Cassandra reached out to Virginia, expressing her desire to get involved. Recognizing Cassandra's passion and potential, Virginia welcomed her aboard.
Cassandra's involvement with Birdability quickly gained momentum due to a partnership with Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center. Despite her full-time job at a nonprofit museum, she dedicated herself to the cause, organizing accessible birding outings and advocating for greater inclusivity in outdoor recreation. Her efforts haven't gone unnoticed; she's being featured in Nebraskaland magazine and was recently on Nebraska Public Media, highlighting her commitment to making birding accessible to all.
One of Cassandra's most memorable moments came during an outing at Indian Cave State Park. A mother approached her, expressing gratitude and the need for more accessible birding programming for her son, who had multiple sclerosis. This encounter reinforced Cassandra's resolve to expand Birdability's reach and foster partnerships with organizations like Audubon chapters and city parks and recreation departments to continue building access.
Looking ahead, Cassandra envisions a future where birding is universally accessible. She hopes to collaborate with other organizations to provide training and resources for creating accessible birding programs. By empowering Birdability Captains across different regions, she aims to build a network of support and expertise to make birding a welcoming activity for all.
Beyond her advocacy work, Cassandra's personal journey into birding reflects her deep connection to nature. Raised in western Kansas, she developed a love for the outdoors while exploring with her son. Now, as an avid birder, her favorite observations include the western meadowlark, whose presence evokes memories of her childhood, and the adorable burrowing owls that she was able to spend time with while observing a prairie dog town while training as a Master Naturalist in Western Nebraska.
Cassandra's dedication to Birdability exemplifies the transformative power of passion and advocacy. Through her efforts, she's not only creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities but also fostering a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all bird enthusiasts. As she continues to champion accessibility in birding, Cassandra Dean is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in the world of ornithology - in her own community and across the country!
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