By Eric Dixon, Certified Safety Instructor

My name is Eric, and I had the pleasure of attending the National ADA Symposium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Aside from the idea that this was an enormous project for anyone's undertaking, I was pleasantly surprised by the volume of information provided. I have gone to hundreds of conventions over the recent years and all of them pale in comparison to this event.

The most impressive ingredient in this event was the selection of supporting vendors. Each booth featured a very valuable resource to the ADA community as well as businesses, organizations and agencies that need help with becoming compliant. There were tools and services that were directly useable by the members of the ADA community or by those who provide direct support such as agencies and companies looking to make accommodations for inclusion.

Disability Banner from User1st at National ADA SymposiumAs a member of the ADA community, I got the opportunity to learn more about barrier removal options. I heard first-hand stories about how barriers were shattered to create opportunities for inclusion and got hands-on information on networking to keep the movement going forward. I also learned the importance of getting involved in the change process and why just waiting for others to do it hurts instead of help. If each of us affected by a disability would connect with companies like User1st, we could increase our presence and voice through web technology. Their mission is to ensure all websites become accessible for us. Their accessible website is www.user1st.com, or you can call Shawn Pike at 888-995-9224. When we make a connection with Eric Sinagra from PathVu, we increase our opportunity to travel freely using our cell phones as our eyes. Find Eric at [email protected] or call him at 412-651-4180.

These are just a few of the vast array of resources available to us as well as companies, organizations and agencies. My personal goal is to use these resources to strengthen the awareness of the ADA laws and community. It is time we stop taking a back seat in society and become an active presence within it. As an emergency planner and instructor, my goal is to work with companies, agencies and individuals to create a safer environment to live, work and play for all. I welcome anyone interested in moving this goal forward.

Eric Dixon,
Certified Safety Instructor
[email protected]