Disability is a rich part of human diversity, something nearly all of us will live with at some point in our lives, and an identity that can shape how we experience the world.
Disability Pride Month celebrates the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark piece of legislation that broke down barriers to inclusion for millions of Americans. As our society continues the work to become more inclusive and accessible, you can help raise awareness while honoring the achievements and advancing the rights of people with disabilities.
ACCESSIBLE ARTS AND CULTURE
Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School is the nation’s only community music school dedicated to serving students of all ages with vision loss. It provides adaptive instruction, accessible music technology, and performances across the city.
Hands On provides access to arts and cultural programs for the Deaf and hard of hearing communities. It offers sign-interpreted performances and information on deafness and the arts across New York City, averaging 20-30 interpreted Broadway and Off-Broadway productions a year.
“Hands On has a unique approach to interpretation. Rather than interpreting from the side of the stage, it works with directors to physically integrate interpreters into each production. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone of accessibility in theater”- Craig Peterson, program director, arts, culture and historic preservation.
Summertime Gallery is an art studio, residency, and gallery in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, that forges a more inclusive art world and provides a home for artists with and without disabilities to create and exhibit artwork together.
CREATING AN INCLUSIVE WORKFORCE
Adaptive Design Association operates Made2Learn, a program that teaches young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to design and fabricate adaptive equipment. Students customize equipment for real clients, who they meet with to develop, design, test, and refit the piece.
Tech Kids Unlimited teaches computational thinking and technology skills to young people with learning disabilities who are ages 10 to 24. Programs include afterschool and weekend workshops, summer camps, job training, and professional development for educators.
LONG ISLAND: The Nicholas Center helps autistic individuals learn critical life skills, improve social and communication abilities, gain meaningful vocational training, and engage in community projects. It focuses on inclusive employment through a Supported Employment Program that partners with local businesses and nonprofits to connect participants with work opportunities and community projects.
HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES
Eden II Programs offers education, adult day programs, residential care, family support, respite, and other services to the autism community. Based on Staten Island, the organization serves over 500 participants in New York City and Long Island.
WESTCHESTER: Westchester Institute for Human Development works to create better futures for people with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers through professional education, comprehensive services, community training and technical assistance, and innovative research.
This list is not exhaustive. There are many incredible nonprofits helping make our region a better place for all; we seek to highlight a few that may not already be on your radar. Please reach out to our philanthropic advising department at advising@thenytrust.org if you are a donor seeking customized recommendations based on your charitable goals.
