Independent Connection prepares for ADA anniversary and youth transition network launch

The Salina City Accessibility Advisory Board held a meeting on May 1, 2025, focusing on enhancing accessibility services for residents with disabilities. A key highlight was the announcement of upcoming events aimed at promoting community engagement and awareness around accessibility issues.

One significant initiative discussed was the third annual poster contest organized by Independent Connection, which invites public participation. The contest aims to raise awareness about accessibility and will culminate in a celebration on July 25, 2025, at the Smoky Hill Museum, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This event will showcase the submitted posters and announce the contest winner, fostering a sense of community involvement and recognition of the importance of accessibility.

The board also emphasized its commitment to providing free services to individuals with disabilities, with the exception of a fee for accessibility reviews offered to businesses. These reviews help ensure that local facilities comply with ADA standards, thereby enhancing accessibility for all community members.

In addition to these initiatives, the board is launching a youth transition network program aimed at supporting individuals aged 10 to 24. This program will focus on helping young people with disabilities navigate their transition into adulthood, including educational and vocational opportunities.

The meeting also touched on ongoing efforts to improve the city’s website accessibility, with plans for future testing and updates to ensure compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The board is working towards a deadline of April 26, 2027, for implementing these changes for title 2 entities, which includes the City of Salina.

As the board continues to address accessibility challenges, it encourages community members to share ideas for future educational opportunities and presenters. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration and proactive measures in creating an inclusive environment for all residents of Salina.