The Great Lakes Bay Region Quality of Life Council, doing business as the
GoGreat Foundation, along with SAGE Inclusion and the Disability Network of Mid-Michigan, are excited to announce their partnership for a comprehensive community accessibility assessment.
The initiative will focus on accessibility training, certification, and marketing to improve inclusivity and accessibility for residents and visitors in Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties.
The assessment will look closely at different places to stay, public areas, roads, services, and other resources in the region. The goal is to showcase the features that make it enjoyable for visitors while also pointing out any obstacles that might prevent people with disabilities from fully joining in on community events and activities.
"We are excited to collaborate with the SAGE Inclusion and Disability Network of Mid-Michigan on this important initiative," says Annette Rummel, President/CEO of the Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB (Go Great Lakes Bay) and the GoGreat Foundation.
"Our aim is to create an environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy full participation in the region's offerings. This partnership will help us identify areas where accessibility can be enhanced, making our community more inclusive and welcoming to all."
SAGE Inclusion and Disability Network of Mid-Michigan brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the community accessibility audit. As a leading organization advocating for inclusive practices and policies, they have been working diligently to improve accessibility and promote disability inclusion in the region and across the globe.
"We are delighted to partner with the Great Lakes Bay Region Quality of Life Council on this important initiative," says Amy Jukes, chief operating officer at SAGE Inclusion.
"By conducting a comprehensive community accessibility audit, we aim to create a more inclusive and barrier-free environment for everyone. Our hope is that this audit will lay the foundation for positive change and inspire other communities to prioritize accessibility as well."
During the assessment, Sage Inclusion will focus on five main types of disabilities: mobility, vision, hearing, cognitive (which includes sensory issues), and allergies.
The findings from the community accessibility assessment will help create a plan to identify and remove barriers that make it difficult for people to access different places and services.
By working towards a more welcoming environment, the Great Lakes Bay Region will improve life for local residents and attract more visitors, ultimately benefiting everyone in the community.
About Great Lakes Bay Region Quality of Life Council
The Go Great Foundation, also known as the Great Lakes Bay Region Quality of Life Council, provides financial support for projects and activities focused on tourism economic development in Bay, Midland, and Saginaw Counties, with the help of the respective Convention and Visitors Bureaus in the area.
The foundation's goal is to enhance quality of life and improve the experience for residents and visitors in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region by identifying and addressing shortcomings in recreational and cultural facilities. Through developing products, services, and educational programs, the foundation backs initiatives to boost community attractiveness and keep talent within the region.
About SAGE Inclusion
SAGE Inclusion is dedicated to promoting disability inclusion and advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. They offer resources, support, and education to foster a more inclusive and accessible society.
About Disability Network of Mid-Michigan
Disability Network Mid-Michigan (DNMM), established in 1990, serves 12 counties across Mid-Michigan, including Alcona, Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gratiot, Gladwin, Iosco, Isabella, Midland, Ogemaw, Roscommon, and Saginaw. Headquartered in Midland with satellite offices in Bay and Saginaw, DNMM aims to promote independence for people with disabilities and envisions accessible communities that offer individual choice.
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.