New training supports children with developmental disabilities
A new statewide program, Paving the Way to Self Determination, has been developed to raise the expectations families have for their children with developmental disabilities.
Disability Inclusion
5 reasons why employers should hire more people with disabilities
The unemployment rate for working-age persons with disabilities is at least twice that of those without disabilities. Let’s fix that.
6 perfect matches: Finding the right job for workers with disabilities lets them thrive
People with disabilities are twice as likely to be unemployed compared to those without a disability. Beyond26 is one of several organizations trying to change that. Their clients share their success stories.
Mother finds accessible play space to accommodate the entire family
Jess Ronne found a play space where her son Lucas, who is autistic, could come along with his siblings. The accessible playground and barn at Benjamin’s Hope in Holland is a place designed for those with disabilities but welcomes everyone.
United Ways, Disability Network partner for Disability Equity Challenge
To help people better understand the challenges faced by those with disabilities, the United Ways in Michigan have launched the 21-Day Disability Equity Challenge.
Kalamazoo advocate works behind the scenes to create a more inclusive community
From affordable housing to accessible transportation, big-picture thinker Paul Ecklund works to make lasting changes by changing systems.
Temple Grandin makes memorable visit to Benjamin’s Hope
Temple Grandin, whose work inspired the founder of Benjamin’s Hope, visits the Holland farmstead community for adults with autism. She’ll return for a 2023 event.
Accessibility to waterways becoming a priority in state and local parks
Recent projects in Spring Lake and Grand Rapids are examples of how accessibility to waterways is becoming a priority in state and local parks. Increasing accessibility is a priority for the state, which is providing grants for these projects.
Making Michigan’s beaches accessible to everyone
“It has been wonderful to hear the stories of families being able to enjoy the beaches and trails together for the first time. The stories go on and on,” says Michelle O'Kelly, coordinator for DNR Fund and Resource Development.
Jon Cauchi’s stand-up comedy shares humor of his experiences as a person with a vision impairment
Jon Cauchi, who became blind at age 12, performs a comedy routine called “The Real and Funny Side of Having a Disability” that brought down the house during Laughfest in March 2020.
