Core philosophies held by the SelfDeterminator are:

•Inclusion really is about supporting a setting so all are equally valued, safe and welcome.

•Having a disability in and of itself has no bearing on how successful and fulfilling life can be.

•Neurodiversity  is the acceptance and celebration of those that operate other than what most of the world considers to be normal and to help society to realize no one really has the right to name what someone else's normal should be.

• Self-determination is really an inalienable right that all have, with or without disabilities, to have control on how they spend their life.
 

​Alex Kimmel is an experienced speaker.  He is contracted at the local, state, national and international levels on such key issues as Inclusion, Disability Acceptance, Neurodiversity, Culture of Gentleness, Person centered planning, Self-determination and Self-direction.
He has educated and inspired students, teachers, professionals, congregations and the community at large since 2006.

Alex Kimmel was named the 2024 winner of the Oakland County Stigma Buster Award. He was selected "because you have used creative and innovative ways to educate others about and reduce stigma regarding developmental disabilities". 

Alex Kimmel was named the inaugural winner of the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute at Wayne State University Jane Vermeulen Leadership Award 2023. 
Annually presented to a person with a disability who exhibits leadership in their local and /or disability community. The selection committee highlighted how Alex exemplifies the ideals of leadership in life and work, living the ideals of self-determination, self-advocacy, person centered supports, community living and other leadership qualities.  

Alex Kimmel is honored to be selected as the foundational featured presenter for the By, With and For Autistic Adults in 2021. “LAUNCH You!” Life Leadership offers unique opportunities to think, learn and talk with experts and peers. The goal is to help you learn and grow about your leadership ability, and to walk out with a group of friends — people who are going through what you are experiencing with whom you can test ideas, share concerns and exchange advice. ​By, With & For Autistic Adults (bywithandforautisticadults.org)

Alex Kimmel Is honored to be the 2019 recipient of the ROBERT THOMAS SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL award from The Arc of Oakland County.
"A social worker who displays exceptional concern for persons with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and shows his/her concern by providing quality care"

Alex Kimmel is honored to be the 2017 co-winner of the prestigious Dan Moran Award for inclusion and advocacy. "This individual actively promotes the rights of individuals, encourages self-advocacy, raises awareness about mental illness or developmental disabilities; breaks down boundaries, creates new relationships that end stigma; and serves as a role model to others."