When RCA recording artist Clay Aiken created an independent study project to fulfill requirements for a degree in Special Education, he had no idea that his theoretical design would soon become reality. Aiken's concept on paper outlined an organization that would promote inclusion for children with disabilities. The seed of the idea was planted three years earlier when Aiken worked one-on-one with Michael Bubel, a teen with autism. Ironically, it was Diane Bubel, the teenager's mom, who encouraged Aiken to later try out for the "American Idol" reality show competition. After briefly mentioning his research project while he was on the "Idol" tour, funds started pouring in for the cause Aiken is now known to champion. Checks were mailed to him, hand delivered, and stuffed into jacket pockets. After the tour was over, Aiken realized that his academic treatise had actually come to life--and remarkably, The Bubel/Aiken Foundation (TBAF) was born. Now, TBAF is transforming the lives of children everywhere. It continuously seeks out ways to fulfill its mission to "create communities where all children can learn, live, and play together." The organization that was once a vision for a pop star now exhibits a sure footing with strong support, model programs, and a book ("Our Friend Mikayla") that offers a simple blueprint for the inclusion of all children.