How Sara Hendren inspires a ‘joyful approach’ to accessible design
Sara Hendren, the author of “What Can A Body Do? How We Meet the Built World” advocates for the “most creative, joyful approach to making the world accessible.”
Shandra Martinez's Latest Articles
Park playground transformation creates space for inclusive play
The playground at Milham Park has undergone a transformation that has created an inclusive environment for outdoor fun. It’s an example of a trend in making parks more accessible for people of all abilities.
Accessible humor takes the stage at Laughfest
D.J. Demers, who is hearing impaired, brings his unique stand-up style to LaughFest on March 8 at the Special Olympics Michigan Unified Sports & Inclusion Center in Grand Rapids. His opening act will be local comedian Jon Cauchi, who is visually impaired.
Documentary explores challenges faced by parent caregivers of children with disabilities
The public is invited to a Feb. 26 screening of a documentary that looks at parent caregivers for children and adults who are disabled or medically complex, and their lack of support from society.
How the pandemic made brain injury support groups more accessible
After going virtual during the pandemic, the brain injury support group hosted by Disability Network Southwest Michigan has shifted to a hybrid model as in-person meetings resume so more people can attend.
Currency readers available for Michiganders who are blind or visually impaired
Michiganders who are blind or visually impaired can now apply to receive an audible currency reader at no cost through the Michigan Braille and Talking Book Library.
Signing Santa brings inclusive holiday cheer to kids with hearing loss
For more than a decade, DHHS has hosted Signing Santa for children who are deaf and hard of hearing so they can more fully experience the holiday tradition.
How Tyler Zahnke, a musician who is blind, is turning passion into a career
Grand Rapids singer Tyler Zahnke was one of 10 music students who are blind selected to attend the SongSight event with Scott MacIntyre, of “American Idol” fame.
ASL interpreter sees a growing need in the field, helps develop a career pathway
According to the most recent study, by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, 733,356 Michiganders — about 7.4% of the state population — identify as deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing. In West Michigan, 8% of residents identify as members of that community.
Why information and referrals are key to supporting the disability community
Every day, people with disabilities find the support and help they need — quickly, conveniently, and free of charge — because of information and referral services.
