August Awareness

7 - Purple Heart Day

7 - International Assistance Dog Awareness week starts

17 - National Non-Profit Day

21 - Senior Citizens Days

26 - Dog Awareness Day

26 - Women's Equality Day

Agency Updates

It was a busy end to July as we carried through with planning for the fairs in Lenawee and Jackson, held the Bikeability event, opened an office in Adrian, kept the Loan Closet going 9-4 on M, W, F, then learned the sudden news in Adrian of a 12 story apartment building evacuating all its residents (many with disabilities) due to structural issues, all while still continuing our other daily tasks. Staff have done a great job and continue to work hard as plans begin to take shape for the fall.  

Changing Mindsets through Signs

On the eve of the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law Public Acts 182 and 183 of 2022. Over time, these will overhaul the look of accessibility signs in Michigan. In an effort to change the helpless stigma about people with disabilities that many feel the older image sends, these new signs promote people with disabilities as being more active.

The new design will only be required for new parking lots/accessible areas and when replacement signage is needed. The new laws also apply to state and local governments, which are encouraged to remove the word “handicapped” from their signs or means of communication. However, they can also wait to roll out the new accessibility signs until new or replacement signs are needed.

These amended laws take effect Oct. 23rd, but the redesigned signs won’t be required until a year later. However, we wouldn't be mad if you were proactive and get your signs updated anytime sooner. 

Adaptive Cycling

A beautiful sunny day and a big empty parking lot downtown made a great setting for people to try various handcycles and a recumbent bike. Michigan Sports Unlimited came with great options for people to experience. We had people of all abilities giving the bikes a try. Each and every one of the riders had a smile on their face as they figured out how to use the equipment. Truthfully, it was a bit of a humbling experience for all as it took a few laps to get the hang of pedaling and how to turn. All agreed that it definitely was a fun experience and alternate way for people to stay active. We hope to do more with them in the future and potentially create other opportunities for more to join the fun. If you'd like to try handcycling or other adaptive recreation, follow our Facebook page for other opportunities happening in the area or throughout the state.

FREE

JUST REGISTER TO ATTEND:

www.disabilityconnect.org

OR

call 517-998-3091