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Resources for Handicap Accessibility

Resources to learn more about handicap accessibility can be obtained through the state and federal government, community organizations, universities and private sector. The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1991. It mandated all public spaces be made accessible to all people. Stipulations and alterations to this law can be found in an updated 2010 manual appearing online.

  1. Government

    • Federal and state government agencies will have the most up to date resources to learn how to make a public space accessible to all. State governments also usually have departments or agencies dedicated to supporting people with disabilities. One example of a resource is the Social Security Administration. Visit your state's website and search "disability" to find resources, support groups and disability forms.

    Community Organizations and Nonprofits

    • Community organizations and nonprofits are other resources for education, advice, support groups, events and programs that serve disabled people. Local organizations might target a specific disability, such as Crohn's disease, or advocate for people with disabilities in general. Community organizations also will have more knowledge about accessibility, the standards for your city or state and how to improve a public space for access.

    Universities

    • Universities also have offices dedicated to supporting students with disabilities. These offices also generally are open to answering questions from the community. Large universities also might be able to refer you to other resources in the community.

    Private Sector

    • Corporations and for-profit institutions initiate disability programs and education campaigns based on federal stipulations. Companies may have community groups for employees with disabilities to build relationships and talk about the struggles of having a disability in the workplace. These groups usually are not open to the public. They also may not share their knowledge or practices. However, much of what a company does to support diversity and non-discrimination will be posted on its website.

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