July 2024 Newsletter
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Working alongside people with disabilities to create equal access to home, community, and employment.
Welcome to the Disability Advocates of Kent County's monthly newsletter. Follow us for program updates, stories of impact, and upcoming events.
July is Disability Pride Month! ??
In the month of July, we take time to honor the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of the disability community. It’s also the month we celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was groundbreaking legislation signed on July 26, 1990 that has since advanced disability equity and inclusion in the U.S.
People with disabilities deserve to live full, self-determined lives, yet discrimination persists for the 1 in 4 U.S. adults living with a disability. This month and beyond, we work hard to continue to show what's possible with inclusion.
Stories of Impact
Mock Interviews: Successful Summer Sessions!
We recently wrapped up our Summer Session Mock Interviews. This summer we held interview sessions at Rockford High School, Cedar Springs High School, and Northview High School. Mock Interviews are integral to our mission of preparing young people with disabilities for their futures outside of school. The Mock Interview sessions allow us to partner with several area employers to provide invaluable interviewing and job-seeking experiences for our participants. A massive thank you to the incredible organizations that volunteer their time as interviewers.
Additionally, we are grateful to the schools for providing us with the locations to host these events. And a huge thanks to our partners and participants for making each session a success!
Indulge in a Sweet Cause: July "Community Donut" Sales Fuel Our Mission!
We are so excited to be featured as Rise Authentic Baking Co.’s Community Donut for the month of July. Throughout the month, $1 for every Community Donut sold will be donated to DAKC, which helps to support our mission of creating a more accessible and inclusive community. It’s a delicious way to make a difference, so don’t miss out on getting yours!
Thank you Rise!
Upcoming Events ??
ADA Celebration | Wednesday, July 24th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Don't miss this FREE, FUN, FAMILY event!? All your favorite activities from past years will be back in celebration of the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Disability & Senior Housing Conference | September 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
These are the top three issues our communities are facing today. ?In response, we have formed the Disability and Senior Housing Coalition in Ottawa and Kent counties and now are widening our efforts.?Come join us for a solutions-focused event.
Invest in Ability | Thursday, November 7 at 6 p.m.
Honoring Mike & Debbie Damstra, Founders and Owners of CareLinc
Sponsorships are available for the signature event!
Make Your Gift Today!
If you are interested in supporting our work at Disability Advocates of Kent County, make a gift today!?With the?help of contributors like you, we work alongside more than?7,000 people with disabilities each year.? That's a lot of impact, and we love you to join us!
Your generosity removes barriers from people achieving independence and leading self-directed lives.
Thank you!
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