The National Apostolate for Inclusion Ministry has had a few names since we were founded in 1968 as NAMR, the National Apostolate for the Mentally Retarded. which was the proper terminology of the decade. We are of course, a National organization, actually extending even beyond the boundaries of the United States. The word “Apostolate” defines our mission within the church and the name seemed appropriate for the time.

As years passed, society became more sensitive and inclusive, and it became imperative that we needed to use the word “Person” in our title. After all, we are striving for recognition of the personhood of all people. So our name was changed to “NAMRP”, The National Apostolate for Mentally Retarded Persons.

It didn’t take too long for us to see the error of our ways, and “People first” became the norm. So our name was changed to “NAPMR”, The National Apostolate for Persons with Mental Retardation.

Today, we are “NAfIM”, the National Apostolate for Inclusion Ministry as we are about intent upon promoting inclusion... Perhaps at a later time, our name will change again, according to the wisdom of the times. That’s O.K. with us; we are after all a living ministry, and therefore experience growth and change. We welcome any input and suggestions that you may have in this area.