Impact 100 Cincinnati’s Post

I am excited to share our research article, "Paving the Way to Active Living for People with Disabilities: Evaluating Park and Playground Accessibility and Usability in Delaware," was recently published in the Delaware Journal of Public Health! This paper discusses the environmental barriers Delawareans with disabilities face when accessing and using parks and playgrounds and highlights the need to create inclusive public spaces with equitable opportunities for physical activity. Thanks to Dr. Obrusnikova & Cora Firkin for the opportunity to be involved with such an interesting and important project! https://lnkd.in/e8gxHZAu

It was a true honor to speak at the Michigan Civil Rights Commission meeting on Monday to provide my perspective on improving accessibility in outdoor recreation. Legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), passed in 1990, and the recently passed EXPLORE Act have been significant milestones in ensuring that all people, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy activities equally. Central to outdoor innovation is accessibility. It’s important that we keep this momentum going in accessibility improvements as the Outdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network (ORIAN) and the economic ecosystem broadly expand outdoor recreation as an asset for our region. These initiatives towards a more accessible outdoor recreation community take many forms. As I shared with the Commission, this can include improving the resources already there through initiatives like enhancing trails and facilities, providing adaptive equipment, and conducting public awareness campaigns. And, it requires taking a proactive approach in intentionally designing recreation spaces so they’re inclusive, consulting with disability advocates, and keeping accessibility front of mind in innovation. As we continue to grow our region’s outdoor recreation economy, we can welcome so many more people when we create spaces where everyone can participate.  Transforming the region so that all are able to explore requires commitment at all levels, and I’m grateful for the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and their leadership. Let’s continue to stay focused on strategies to improve the inclusivity of outdoor recreation. #innovation #accessibility #outdoorinnovation #outdoorrecreation #outdooraccessibility #innovatemarquette #imqt #upperpeninsula #marquette #michigan 

No Barriers Warriors enhances the lives of Veterans with disabilities through the No Barriers framework, a systematic and enduring approach for overcoming barriers. By integrating interactive online courses with an extraordinary multi-day, in-person, outdoor experience, the three-month program cultivates camaraderie and shifts mindsets, connecting Veterans to the following elements: Community: Strengthens sense of belonging; Identity: Develops a clear vision of who the Veteran is; Purpose: Creates a long-term impact with positivity about the future; Belief: What’s within you is stronger than what’s in your way. https://lnkd.in/gmW6EcEN

North Carolina Parks & Recreation Association – Humbled to be their KEYNOTE SPEAKER on Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion   It's such an honor to be invited next week to be NC Parks & Rec’s Keynote Speaker on the topic of recreational therapy, inspiration, motivation, and so much more to commend each and every attendee for their tremendous efforts for their consistent dedication to improving the quality of life for people with all disabilities in North Carolina.   Fun and impactful. That's the name of the game in life.  We are going to sing, dance, dive into psychology, and so much more.  If you are able to come attend on February 6 in Greensboro, NC please click the link below and come join us for what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable conference.    What do you think of as a relates to recreational therapy? I will tell you it is so much more than just a physically fun activity. There is the physical, psychological, and most importantly, it is about community.  As human beings we crave a feeling of being connected and feeling that we are part of something bigger whether that is in our personal, professional, or advocacy lies.   Each time I get on stage, it is never about me, but about the one person in the audience who takes away lesson of hope, purpose, self-perspective, realizing that they are making a real impact despite the tremendous hurdles many agencies and nonprofits face each day with a lack of government funds, resources, and more.  We need to get creative with less and build community more.   Event: Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion - Together, Building Inclusive Communities Where: Barber Event Center, 1502 Barber Park Drive, Greensboro NC 27401 When: February 6 and 7 Register in person or virtual: https://lnkd.in/eZvAbbR4

🌟Celebrating National Challenged Champions and Heroes Day!🌟 Today, we honour the resilience, strength, and achievements of all those who face challenges with unwavering courage and determination. Your stories inspire us to strive for inclusivity and accessibility in every aspect of life. Let's continue to champion diversity and empower every individual to reach their full potential. *INFORMATION IN IMAGE* National Challenged Champions and Heroes Day established with the noble goal of honouring individuals who have triumphed over significant challenges or disabilities, this day serves as a powerful reminder of human resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit that refuses to be defined by limitations. The day aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, mental illnesses, or other significant life obstacles, while simultaneously celebrating their achievements and contributions to society. Ways To Celebrate The Day Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to raise awareness about the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities. Collaborations with Schools: Partner with schools to create programs that educate students about the achievements of individuals with disabilities. Storytelling Sessions: Arrange sessions where individuals with disabilities can share their inspiring life stories and journeys. Social Media Tributes: Share stories, photos, and videos on social media platforms highlighting the achievements of challenged champions and heroes.

📣Did you know SAU1 was awarded the GOLD SEAL, again?!📣 For another year, we earned the GOLD SEAL of TRANSPARENCY from Candid GuideStar, the world's largest source of nonprofit information. ⚡Knowledge is power, and we want you to use it. That's why we go above and beyond to make sure we are transparent.⚡ At Self Advocates United as 1, an organization by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities, we talk about "power" a lot.   We call ourselves Power Coaches, a power coach models and helps other understand the Power of Speaking Up for one's rights.  At the end of every peer-to-peer education event we present, we lead the crowd in a spirited shout of our motto: "KNOWLEDGE IS POWER... USE IT!" Maybe it's because so many people with disabilities have felt powerless for so long.  We are working every day to change that... ⭐We Envision a World where People with Developmental Disabilities and Their Families are United to Share Knowledge, Empower Others, and Use Their Voices to Transform Their Communities and People's Lives.⭐ ⚡Will you join us? Please help Power the Power of SAU1 with your investment today at sau1.me/invest!⚡

Monday Motivation: A Magnificent Mission for Movement I'm incredibly fortunate to be spending time this week with the inspiring Bentley family. Their story is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the human spirit. When their son, MJ, was diagnosed with Pallister-Killian Syndrome (PKS), a rare genetic disorder, they embarked on a remarkable journey to create a world of possibilities for MJ and children like him. Motion Junction is a tangible manifestation of their unwavering love and determination. This extraordinary playground is a meticulously designed space where every child, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of play and movement. From the moment they conceived this idea, the Bentleys faced countless hurdles – fundraising, navigating complex regulations, and overcoming the physical and emotional challenges of raising a child with special needs. But their passion and perseverance have created a place that is truly magical. As we celebrate Disability Awareness Month, it's essential to recognize the incredible impact individuals like the Bentleys have on our communities. Their work is a powerful reminder that inclusion is not just a buzzword, but a fundamental right. By creating spaces like Motion Junction, they are breaking down barriers and fostering a more compassionate and understanding world. Let's be inspired by the Bentley family's courage and commitment. Let's use this week to reflect on how we can contribute to a more inclusive society. Together, we can build a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Learn More Here: https://lnkd.in/ebBGsNsU #MondayMotivation #MotionJunction #PKS #DisabilityAwarenessMonth #Inclusion #Accessibility #Inspiration #advocacyinaction

If you're interested in learning more about barriers created by infrastructure for people trying to access destinations and mobility services, check out this webinar on Wednesday!

Did you know that individuals with intellectual disabilities lack access to quality health care and services compared to others in their communities? Globally, millions of people with intellectual disabilities experience dramatically higher rates of preventable disease, chronic pain and suffering, and premature death in every country around the world. Special Olympics is committed to changing the game for athlete health and to create a world where people with and without intellectual disabilities have the same opportunity to be healthy. That's why Special Olympics BC initiated the Champions for Inclusive Health Stakeholder Coalition. These key partners from around the province dedicate time and energy to this important issue. They are active in health and passionate about helping people with intellectual disabilities receive the quality care they deserve. Together, we can challenge the status quo! Learn more about this important initiative and how you can get involved. https://lnkd.in/gSBi-Nqw

Its Disabled Access Day! Today, we're spotlighting an issue close to our hearts at OutLET : the universal right to play and connect with nature, especially for children and young people with disabilities. It's a significant day, and our message is clear: Access to the joys of nature and play should not be a privilege but a right for all. (This belief isn't just ours alone; itels soon to be reinforced by law here in scotland) Barriers to accessing natural play spaces are more common than they should be for young ones with physical disabilities. But at OutLET, we're here to prove it doesn't have to be this way. Our dedicated team, fueled by personal battles for inclusion, brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table. They're not just advocates; they're warriors for change, using their journeys to inspire and drive our mission forward.💪 🌳 Our Commitment to Inclusion 🌳 Through lived experiences, our staff showcases practical adaptations to make woodlands and natural play areas accessible to everyone. Our commitment is unwavering, and our programmes are designed to be inclusive, ensuring no child is left behind. Want to learn more about our journey and the magic of inclusive forest schools? Check out our team's inspiring stories here: (https://lnkd.in/etNDGcXf) 📣 Join Us in Making a Difference 📣 Interested in making nature accessible for all? Learn how through our Inclusion Outdoors CPD. Reach out by sending us a DM with the word "Inclusion" and be part of this vital movement. Let's acknowledge #DisabledAccessDay by embracing diversity, promoting accessibility, and ensuring that every child has the freedom to play and explore in nature. Together, we can break down barriers and build a more inclusive world. 💚