We have had numerous activities throughout the country celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), though much progress has been made, we still have much work ahead of us.
Getting out into the community in Gary, Indiana it has taught us that although many may have heard of the ADA, there are still significant and apparent gaps in the areas of infrastructure, education, employment, and community integration between the non-disabled and disabled populations.
Our goal for 2016 is to work with the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association, Superintendent of Parks and Mayor’s Organization on Disability among others to conduct an Accessibility Assessment of the Beach, create an ADA compliant Kayak and Canoe Launch at Marquette Lagoon, $35,000. work with local businesses and install accessible paths to the beach at a cost of $22,000, Having this Accessible Launch and Accessible Paths would allow all, especially school age children who take part in programs with the Dunes Learning Center and Wilderness Inquiry to be with nature, enjoy outdoor, beachfront recreational activities, and rivers.
This is intended for local residents and visitors alike.
Ecuadorean-born Gary woman pushes hard in fight for the disabled