For individuals living with a disability, it can
be challenging to participate in certain activities or
even perform basic tasks Fortunately, there are many
groups dedicated to empowering people of all ages
and abilities. In no particular order, here are
some organizations working to make the world a
more inclusive place.
First up, at # 1 we have Let's
Loop Seattle, a public education and access advocacy
initiative launched by the Hearing Loss Association of
Washington. The group provides information and resources about
hearing loops, which are assistive listening systems that
can be used to send signals into someone's
cochlear implant.
The organization is run by volunteer advocates, and
it aims to make the Puget Sound area
one of the most hearing-accessible places in the
United States. Among the group's resources is a
list of looped venues in Washington, as well
as articles on how to make events more
hearing-friendly and accessible, including a guide on communicating
via computer-assisted real-time translation.
Taking the # 2 spot is Art-Reach. Founded
in 19 86 the group is dedicated to
increasing cultural participation among underrepresented audiences in both
the disability and low-income sectors. Among its offerings
is the ACCESS Card, which allows holders to
visit participating sites at a significantly discounted rate.
Art-Reach also partners with a network of human
service agencies in order to connect people to
a wide range of affordable cultural experiences throughout
Greater Philadelphia. Its ENCORE program provides various activities
customized to its members' needs, including artist-led workshops
and audio-described tours of exhibitions.
Next up, at # 3 we have the
Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center, which seeks to provide
life-changing experiences to those who are often excluded
from outdoor activities due to a disability or
special need. Each year, it offers various recreation
programs for individuals and groups, including adaptive skiing
and snowboarding lessons.
The organization's Wilderness Program serves those with physical
and cognitive limitations who want to enjoy the
experience of outdoor activities, such as hiking canoeing
cycling, and camping. Its Keystone Adaptive Center also
hosts events for veterans in both winter and
summer these are designed to help participants with
the recovery and healing process.
Coming in at # 4 is the Magical
Bridge Foundation, which advocates for and builds inclusive
outdoor spaces that welcome people of all ages
and abilities. The organization's playgrounds are designed to
have distinct zones and features, including interactive art
pieces and a community treehouse and stage.
The group's Kindness Ambassador Program trains young volunteers
to encourage compassionate behavior on and off the
playground. Magical Bridge, in partnership with Changing Perspectives,
a nonprofit that offers disability awareness programming, also
provides parents and caregivers with resources and activities
that aim to promote empathy and inclusion.
Finally, at # 5 we have Special Olympics
Northern California, which provides year-round training and athletic
competition in a variety of sports for both
children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The organization
also offers free health screenings and education through
various programs, such as Strong Minds, an interactive
learning activity focused on developing one's adaptive coping
skills.
Its Schools Partnership Program unifies individuals with and
without disabilities through sports and other activities that
provide participants with the skills they need to
develop inclusive and respectful communities. The organization also
hosts various fundraising and special events throughout the
region each year.