As we move into the summer months and on to celebrating the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 2023, the Hoosier Health and Wellness Alliance (HHWA) wants to encourage you to consider accessibility options for your recreation facilities and outdoor developed areas.

As a statewide health coalition focused on reducing obesity across Indiana by increasing physical activity opportunities for all Hoosiers, the HHWA recognizes the importance of recreational accessibility for the estimated 26% of individuals living with a disability across the country. This understanding is what led to a partnership with national ADA expert, Jennifer Skulski, on a three-part professional development series for parks and recreation departments across Indiana. The series included an all day, in person workshop, Accessibility Considerations for Recreation Facilities and Outdoor Developed Areas, that provided hands on activities and engagement and two webinars:
– Best Practices in Accessibility Management for Parks & Recreation
– Trails, Shared Use Paths, Public Rights of Way

Follow the links above to view the virtual trainings, or head to ADA.gov for more information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to learn how your organization can implement or maintain accessible spaces.

Interested in learning more about the HHWA and their work in the park space? Reach out to Antonia Sawyer, at afsawyer@iu.edu and get connected!