We are excited that United Way will once again offer the 21-Day Disability Equity Challenge. During the month of August participants will learn about disability from a position of equity and pride. It is designed to raise your awareness, increase your understanding and shift your perspective about disability in our culture.

It's not too late to participate! Use the button below to register for the 21-Day Disability Equity Challenge.

Paving the Way to Self Determination is a new program developed and facilitated by Disability Network Southwest Michigan to raise the expectations families have for their children with developmental disabilities. The program introduces concepts to families and children with developmental disabilities (ages birth-12) that will lead to self-determined lives.

Paving the Way to Self Determination provides on-line educational opportunities for families and their children with developmental disabilities on topics that promote self-determination and independence. The program also provides information and referral services to families on a statewide level and access to the Charting the Life Course program.

Each year we recruit several youth and young adults to participate in a paid advocacy program called Advocacy Academy. The program provides an opportunity to get involved in the disability rights movement and learn the skills of advocacy. This year's group has completed their orientation and are embarking on their advocacy work. You can follow their work on Facebook and Instagram.

Watch out world! Here comes the next generation of disability rights advocates!

Job ads speak volumes -- what do yours say? There are a few steps your Human Resources department can take to ensure descriptions of essential functions aren't inadvertently ableist.

Follow the link below for more information.