Well-prepared and bubbling with enthusiasm, Kimberly Resh asked South Whitehall commissioners for permission to conduct "Tri for Inclusion," June 30, at Parkland High School and the surrounding area.

Resh told the board, at its Dec. 19, 2012, meeting, she founded an organization, Mikayla's Voice, in 2010 to inspire children of all ages to share the message of inclusion.

Resh's daughter, Mikayla, who was brain injured at birth, is unable to walk or talk.

"Mikayla's never spoken a word," she said. "My idea is for other kids to speak for her and inspire individuals to embrace people of all abilities."

The sanctioned event will include a 100-yard swim, 3.1-mile bike ride, and a .625 mile run.

"My goal is to get 150 people with disabilities from the Lehigh Valley to be on the team," Resh said, adding they will be accompanied by individuals who will perform the activities at their side.

The race will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Resh displayed township maps indicating proposed roads to be closed from 8:15-11:30 a.m.

Impressed by her story and detailed plans, commissioners advised her to proceed, with assistance from township staff, including the police department for traffic control and road closures.