The Independence Center

Our October Newsletter is live! Click on the following link to read about National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Voting at The IC, and more! ?? https://conta.cc/3Yn0qVw

This morning, IC CEO Indy Frazee, Housing Specialist, Erica, and I&R Specialist Tyler had the opportunity to speak before Colorado Springs City Council as a new resolution in recognition of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month was signed. Our team members were able to share their lived experiences of working with visible and invisible disabilities, share the importance of self-advocacy, and remind City Council of The IC's vision of building a world where everyone is Known, Valued & Included!???

The 2024 election is right around the corner! The IC is proud to announce that we will once again open our facility as an accessible Voter Service and Polling Center (VSPC) for this year’s November election! Our building, located at 729 S. Tejon, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 is fully accessible. This means that anyone can come in and utilize the space, regardless of disability. An accessible voting machine will be available, with certified election officials on-hand to answer questions. By voting at The IC, you can cast your vote independently and with privacy. If you’ve already filled out a ballot, there will also be a ballot drop box where your ballot can be officially and securely deposited. For more information on VSPC locations and hours, click on the following link??? https://lnkd.in/gdnVKKdB

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities? The IC is seeking an experienced Program Manager to join our dynamic Independent Living Services team. In this role, you will play a key part in ensuring disability rights are respected, while managing a team who provides services to help individuals increase their independence. Come work at one of The Gazette's 2023 "Best Workplaces" in Colorado Springs! To apply, click on the following link ?? https://lnkd.in/gUXsWTxB

This morning, IC Staff and Board Members attended the Downtown Colorado Springs Partnership Breakfast with other community organizations and leaders. This event was a great opportunity to talk about the future of downtown Colorado Springs and make sure that folks with disabilities have a seat at the table. Our work continues to help create a community where everyone is Known, Valued, & Included!

Our September Newsletter is LIVE! Click on the following link to learn about Deaf Awareness Month, a new partnership in Colorado Springs, Disability Voting Rights, and more! ? https://conta.cc/47vGa7l

Disability Voting Rights Week is a movement aimed at ensuring that every eligible voter with a disability can participate fully in our democracy. Despite more than 38 million people with disabilities being eligible to vote, many face access barriers that prevent them from casting their ballots. DVRW, formerly known as National Disability Voter Registration Week, is organized by the American Association of People with Disabilities’ REV UP Voting Campaign. Its mission is to eliminate these barriers and champion the rights of disabled voters. Want to learn more about REV UP Voting Campaign? Click on the following link ? https://lnkd.in/eHAK46WY

Visit COS has partnered with Wheel the World to inspire people with disabilities to travel and enjoy the incredible experiences our city has to offer! Through this collaboration, Colorado Springs is officially 'Destination Verified' with Wheel the World - opening the door for everyone, regardless of disability, to make travel plans and find accessible hotels, restaurants, experiences, and destinations throughout the city. Together, we are continuing our work to build a world where everyone is Known, Valued, and Included!??? Click on the link below to watch a video put together by Visit COS and Wheel the World??? https://lnkd.in/gQUA3QGf

The Opening Ceremonies for the 2024 Paralympic Games happened yesterday in Paris, France! For the first time in the history of the Paralympics, the Opening Ceremony took place outside of a stadium. The iconic Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysees served as the backdrop while athletes from around the world took part in the Parade of Nations. There will be around 4,400 athletes from a record 168 delegations. The US Paralympian Team features 225 athletes,?8 of which are from Colorado! Want to learn more about the Opening Ceremonies? Click on the following link: https://lnkd.in/gwPNkMQj

Our August newsletter is live! Click the link below to read a recap of our 2024 Fest-ABLE,?a preview of the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, and much more!