Tag Archives: ada

image of an accessible path with a wheelchair logo painted on the path

From Miami to Los Angeles: Noticing Accessibility in a New Place

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As many of you know, back in August, I moved to Los Angeles, California to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) after spending my whole life being born and raised in Miami, Florida. Along with this move came plenty of culture shocks. I noticed the popularity of breakfast burritos, beaches with views of mountains, cliffside roads with breathtaking views, but most notably the advancements in disability accommodations in California, as opposed to Florida.

clip art of an abstract american flag and the words voting in 2026

Voting in 2026

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Check your registration and voting status, make sure you can vote this election cycle.

Pizza Night Collage Page Two

Update on DIG’s Supper Social Club

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As we continued to meet, we watched people come out of their shells. Those same young adults who were once quiet began starting conversations, forming friendships, and looking forward to each event. Confidence grew. Laughter came easier. The Supper Social Club became more than dinner; it became a place of belonging.

Alfredo looking at the camera sitting in his wheelchair smiling

From Being a Number to Building Possibility

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

If you are navigating life with a disability, know this: Your path does not need to mirror anyone else’s to be meaningful. The journey is not about returning to who you were – it is about discovering who you can still become.

holiday graphic with gold bells a hannukah menorah a kwanza menorah a red background and green leaves in the corners

Happy Holidays 2025

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

DIG will continue to advocate, educate, and empower because every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and full participation in their community. Thank you for being part of our journey this year and being part of the DIG family.

justine sitting in her wheelchair under a sign that says radiation oncology

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Bridging the Screening Gap

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

I am forever grateful to my family doctor for pushing me to get that mammogram screening done. Early detection matters. My tumor was stage 2A and had it gone much longer, my outcome could have been much different.

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Benefits – 25-10

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As long as your disabling condition still meets our rules, you can keep your Medicare coverage for at least 8 ½ years after you return to work. (The 8 ½ years includes your nine-month trial work Period)
Your Medicare hospital insurance (Part A) coverage is premium-free. Your Medicare medical insurance (Part B) coverage will also continue.

Jordan and three friends in front of a rock climbing wall

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month: A Personal Journey

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Working with Quad 13 has given my life a new purpose. My hope is that, by sharing my story, you feel inspired to join our mission—whether by sharing a conversation, wearing a lime green ribbon, or supporting the cause.

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Benefits – 25-09

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

If you are a person with a disability and pursuing employment, you are not alone. You can find many agencies providing employment support and help you to reach your vocational goal.

logo for the thirty fifth anniversary of the ada

The Americans with Disabilities Act at 35: A Promise in Peril

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

The rollback of disability rights has also been fueled by the broader political push to eliminate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) programs. These initiatives were designed to ensure that workplaces and institutions reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, including people with disabilities. Yet in the current climate, DEIA has been mischaracterized as “wokeness” and dismissed as a matter of preference rather than a matter of rights. This framing is not only inaccurate, it is dangerous. It ignores the legal obligation to provide reasonable accommodations and treats the needs of disabled individuals as optional.

logo for the thirty fifth anniversary of the ada

35th Anniversary of the Signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

While the ADA reshaped the American society for the better by enabling millions living with disabilities to participate more fully in everyday life, we can use this celebration of it’s signing to recommit ourselves to the ADA’s vision – A nation where every individual, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, opportunity and independence. The ADA’s 35th anniversary is not just a celebration – it is a call for all of us to continue the work.

clipart of pets including dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits

Preparing a Pet Plan: Hurricane Preparedness

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

It’s important to have a plan in place that accounts for every family member, including your pet. For many of us, our pets aren’t simply animals; they are family. They rely on us for food, shelter, and safety, just as much as we rely on them for companionship. This month we are focusing on making sure your furry friends are prepared and safe during a storm.

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Benefits – 25-07

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

To be eligible for disability benefits, a person must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

black and white headshot of justine smiling at the camera

The View From Here (25-06)

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

By: Justine Chichester “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose. For all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller My father died early on a Tuesday morning, April 15, 2025. Just two months ago. He had been ill for a little over two years. As… Read More »

a flag with the words taking action how you can make a difference

Taking Action: Stay Informed – Part 4

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

When you keep up with what’s happening in your community and beyond, you’re always ready to take action when it matters most.

a flag with the words taking action how you can make a difference

Taking Action: How You Can Make A Difference – Part 3

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Even if you think you’re registered and ready, it’s always a good idea to double-check. Laws change, deadlines move, and errors can happen—so taking just a few minutes now can save you stress later. Your vote is your power, and protecting it starts with knowing your status.

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Benefits – 25-04

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

but for some it’s a fear of “If I start working, will my benefits be taken away from me?” The truth is: No. People with disabilities can work without losing their financial security or health care benefits. There are many programs available that make it possible to still collect benefits while working.

Jen and her family standing in front a fountain smiling

Fantasy Draft Pick

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

As we celebrate Autism Acceptance Month, let’s remember that autism doesn’t end with childhood. I can only hope to find appropriate support for my kids in the future. I may not have a draft pick on the way, but I’m hopeful for the right team to meet my children with their needs well into adulthood.

a flag with the words taking action how you can make a difference

Taking Action: How You Can Make a Difference- Part 2

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

Whether you call, email, send a letter, or speak at a public meeting, your input matters. Elected officials rely on feedback from voters like you to guide their decisions.

erin smiling wearing a plaid shirt on a big rock with a blue sky behind her

Year One on the Spectrum: Reflections from a Late-Diagnosed Autistic

By Disability Independence Group, Inc. |

I would have probably been one of those people that would be surprised to hear someone say they found out they were on the autism spectrum in their 30s, but then just after turning 34, I got the “news” that I too am on this wide and usually misunderstood spectrum of neurodivergence, and I’d slipped through the cracks the entire time.