According to KultureCity, a nonprofit specializing in sensory sensitivity, about 1 in 6 individuals have a sensory-processing disorder or an invisible disability that can be easily overstimulated by sensory overload. At such a large margin, it’s no wonder that entertainment venues, workplaces and other communal spaces are becoming certified as “sensory inclusive” or “sensory friendly.” But for the first time, an entire city has come together to make their town inclusive to these individuals. In partnership with KultureCity, Philadelphia has become the first city in the United States to be certified as “sensory inclusive.” The city was presented the prestigious…
Author: DIVERSEability Community
By Victori Solutions and Dustin Woehrmann As cities across the globe continue to evolve, the issue of health care accessibility remains a critical concern that is often overlooked. For individuals with disabilities, navigating health care systems can be fraught with significant challenges, ranging from physical barriers to communication hurdles. By prioritizing inclusivity and leveraging effective marketing strategies, cities can actively bridge these accessibility gaps. Through targeted messaging and representation, marketing plays a major role in shifting the narrative surrounding health care accessibility, fostering a culture of inclusivity and ensuring that health care services are accessible to all members of the…
By Heather Florio Growing up, I always sensed that there was something off about me. It seemed like I constantly said the wrong things at the wrong time, struggled to connect with my peers and endured relentless bullying for being different. My brain operated in a distinct way—analytical rather than emotional. I sought refuge in the library, immersing myself in books that helped me make sense of the perplexing behaviors of my classmates during middle school.Reflecting on my thought processes, I acknowledge that my mind is incessantly working to connect people and ideas—it’s simply second nature to me. This…
The Disability Policy Seminar, coming to Washington, D.C. April 8-10, is an annual federal legislative conference co-sponsored by leading disability advocate organizations.This includes The Arc, Autism Society, American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Association of University Centers on Disabilities, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, United Cerebral Palsy, Self Advocates Becoming Empowered, and TASH (the partners). The Disability Policy Seminar strengthens our federal advocacy efforts by providing training, learning opportunities, and updates, as well as opportunities to visit members of Congress.The Seminar promotes unity and movement building and amplifies the concerns of people with IDD before Congress.Sessions, Focus…
In 2014, a law was passed that officially greenlit Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts—a tax-advantaged savings program for people with disabilities. Since then, over 137,000 accounts have been opened, helping those with disabilities to save a collective $1.25 billion to be used for disability expenses. These accounts not only allow people with disabilities to save money without the threat of affecting their social security or other government benefits, but also help them to lead more independent lives. If you’re looking to open an ABLE account or just want the latest updates on how your finances may change in the…
Strategy for Access Foundation, led by Abilities Expo Ambassador Vanessa Williams, is thrilled to announce the debut of its new docu-series, Accessible Chicago. Strategy for Access is the parent nonprofit for Fun4theDisabled, an organization whose mission is to promote enjoyable, accessible experiences for individuals with disabilities.The docu-series, which highlights the accessibility and inclusivity of multiple attractions in the city of Chicago, premiered on February 13 at the Museum of Science and Industry. The event was an evening of inspiration and disability awareness, bringing together key figures in accessibility advocacy and representatives from prominent Chicago institutions.This dynamic line-up includes Susan Brehm…
In its desire to serve a larger segment of the disability community, Abilities Expo—the premiere event for people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors and healthcare professionals—has agreed to be acquired by Raccoon Media Group, a global leader in community-based events. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for both organizations, opening up new avenues for growth and opportunity in the health and well-being markets. Founded in 1979, Abilities Expo has long been recognized as the leading live and online platform for showcasing disability information, products, services and technologies through its digital platform and live events in Los Angeles, Metro New…
Thanks to significant funding, opportunities for people with disabilities may begin to expand. The Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) announced that it would award nearly $199 million to 20 model demonstration projects across the country. All 20 projects are dedicated to the economic self-sufficiency of children and youth with disabilities by creating systemic approaches to enhance post-school outcomes.The funding will go to the Pathways to Partnerships innovative model demonstration project, an initiative that supports collaborative partnerships between state vocational rehabilitation agencies, state and local educational agencies, and federally funded centers for independent living. These programs help individuals with…
Shortly after graduating high school, Kelvin Crosby began to lose his peripheral vision as a result of Usher Syndrome Type II, a condition that affects the vision and hearing. Soon, Crosby found himself at a crossroads between choosing a career path and beginning his healing process, which eventually led him to pottery, entrepreneurship and a platform that would help him reach others in a whole new light.DIVERSEability Magazine (DM) took the time to sit down with Crosby to discuss his journey as a deafblind artist and entrepreneur.DM: How did the idea to become a business owner and start Smart Guider…
RespectAbility’s 10-Year Anniversary Celebration was held in November at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The evening, hosted by comedian Nikki Bailey, unfolded with an energy that mirrored the spirit of RespectAbility itself.The event celebrated RespectAbility’s first decade of impact in disability advocacy and ignited renewed commitment and passion for the decade ahead.Andrew Holbrook, SVP and head of Loudspeaker Enterprise Insights & Analytics at Wells Fargo, kicked off the evening off with impactful remarks, followed by stirring addresses from key figures, including RespectAbility President and CEO Ariel Simms and esteemed leaders from RespectAbility’s Board of Directors, including Linda…
