Sean Kane-Holland, Author at Nature: Accessible for All

Your voice matters. Your experiences matter. At the Spina Bifida Resource Network (SBRN), they believe that advocacy is one of the most powerful ways to improve the lives of individuals with Spina Bifida and other disabilities. Yet many people aren’t sure what advocacy really means, how public policy affects their daily lives, or how they can become involved.

That’s why SBRN is launching a new program, Advocacy in Action. Designed to educate, empower, and inspire members of our community to become effective advocates.
Beginning in mid-August, they’ll offer a series of four weekly educational sessions designed to provide a strong foundation in advocacy. Sessions are expected to be held in the early evening and will be offered both in person and virtually. Final dates and locations will be announced soon.
Whether you’ve never contacted an elected official or have years of experience sharing your story, these sessions are for you.

Sessions explore topics such as:
– The basics of government. Our first session will include an introduction to basics of government and how decisions are made. Including the roles of local, state, and federal officials, and how advocacy efforts can help influence policies that impact our community.
– How to effectively communicate with legislators and decision-makers.
– The power of sharing your personal story
– Ways to get involved with SBRN’s advocacy efforts throughout the year.
You don’t need prior experience, just a willingness to learn and a desire to help create positive change.
By participating, you’ll become part of a growing network of advocates working to ensure that the voices of individuals with Spina Bifida and their families are heard. Every conversation, every email, every meeting, and every story shared has the potential to make a lasting impact.
If you’re interested in learning more or participating in this exciting new initiative please complete the attached interest form here and email back to SBRN at info@thesbrn.org Questions? Email them at info@thesbrn.org or call the office at 908-782-7475

Atlantic County is making efforts to provide a resource for individuals with disabilities looking for opportunities to enjoy the summer fun at the beach with their guide to accessing Beaches & Surf Chairs for People with Disabilities

Please note that information in this guide is subject to change. It is recommended to check the municipality’s website or call before you visit to verify the information.

View the county website for more information – Beach Accessibility | Atlantic County, NJ

The Cape May County Division of Aging and Disability Services provides a great resource for individuals with disabilities looking for opportunities to enjoy the summer fun at the beach with their guide to accessing Cape May County’s Beaches & Surf Chairs for People with Disabilities

In this guide, information on accessible beaches, walkways, ramps, parking, and surf chair availability, as well as beach fees, lifeguard hours, and amenities, is readily available.

The guide is organized alphabetically by town and provides municipal phone numbers and websites for updated information. Please note that information in this guide is subject to change. It is recommended to check the municipality’s website or call before you visit to verify the information.

View the brochure here – Cape-May-County-Beach-Accessibility-Guide-PDF

Did you know that Blindness Awareness Month started in October 2009, here in New Jersey?

Blindness Awareness Month seeks to accomplish many things. Among them are:

Education, Inspiration, and Advocacy.

CBVI’s Annual Blindness Awareness Month (BAM) event is held every October in recognition of Blindness Awareness Month and is CBVI’s own Community Resource Fair.

At this Resource Fair, people of all ages can come and learn about the services provided by CBVI through conversations and interactive demonstrations with CBVI employees.

In addition, organizations that assist in providing services and resources are featured at the event and ready to share information on how they too provide support to the blind, deafblind, and visually impaired community.

If you would like more information about BAM, please e-mail: Bryan.McClain@dhs.nj.gov

Location:
Cheesequake State Park
Hooks Creek Lake Pavilion
300 Gordon Rd., Matawan, NJ 07747

Date: October 8, 2026

Time: 1:00pm – 3:30pm

Join the United Spinal Active Project Live, a vibrant and inclusive discussion group focused on adaptive sports and recreational activities. Hosted by the Kelly Brush Foundation in collaboration with United Spinal Association, this group provides a platform for adaptive sports enthusiasts to engage in lively discussions about various recreational activities. Held virtually every other Tuesday at 5:30pm EST. Get ready to engage, share experiences, and discover new possibilities in adaptive sports and recreation.

Those interested in participating in can use this link to register – Active Project Live- Recreation Discussion – United Spinal Association

United Spinal offers numerous community engagement opportunities, this group is a safe and supportive space for individuals who are navigating life after a new spinal cord injury—within the first three years of their journey. Here, you can connect with others who truly understand the early stages of adjustment, share your experiences, ask questions, and find encouragement.

Conversations cover the emotional, physical, and day-to-day challenges that come with a new injury, helping you build confidence, learn from others, and feel part of a caring community.

This group meets every 3rd Monday of the month, 6pm ET.

Those interested can use this link to register – Newly Injured Spinal Cord Injury Support Group – United Spinal Association