The Burlington County Commissioners are seeking the public’s input on county parks, regional trails, parks programs and how residents would like to see open space funds invested.

Burlington County residents and visitors are encouraged to participate in an online survey about county parks, trails, recreational facilities and programs, open space and other needs. There are 41 questions in the survey. Most questions are related to existing Burlington County Parks and community programs. There are also questions about future investments and Burlington County’s passive and active recreation needs.

All responses will remain anonymous, and the feedback will be used as part of an update to Burlington County’s Open Space and Recreation Plan.

To complete the survey, visit Burlington County Open Space & Recreational Needs Assessment

These courses are designed to make learning American Sign Language engaging, accessible, and community centered.

CorpsTHAT group courses are perfect for:

-Beginners or those refreshing their ASL skills
-Individuals, families, educators, and professionals
-Anyone interested in Deaf culture and inclusive communication
What you can expect:
-Interactive group sessions
-Clear instruction with real-life signing practice
-A supportive and welcoming learning environment
-Focus on both ASL language and Deaf culture

Course details:
-Format: Group classes (virtual via Zoom)
-When: Winter, spring, summer and or fall
-Duration: 10 weeks for an hour twice a week sessions

Spots are limited for a maximum of 8 students per class to ensure quality interaction.

Visit – this link to learn more and register.

Hello Nature Accessible for All advocates. I wanted to share with you this article from The Guardian from the end of last year. It covers a story focused on disability accessibility in the outdoors. Last year, Soar Experiences, offered free outings at Mohonk Preserve in New York State The small non-profit tour operator services people with limited mobility. 

Learn more about the event and the outcomes in the full article – ‘Everyone said it was impossible’: disabled hikers find freedom through off-road wheelchairs | Disability | The Guardian

Ocean Positive and Pinelands Alliance have teamed together to provide training for your staff and volunteers on safety protocols, emergency response, and respectful interactions with participants who have physical disabilities.

Almost 500,000 NJ residents have a Spinal Cord Injury/Disorder or Movement Challenge, yet there is currently no systematic training available for outdoor recreational and community locations on how to provide services appropriate to the needs of these residents.

The free “Safe & Positive For All” training sessions taught by the team from Ocean Positive are designed for land management leaders, guides, support staff and coordinators for agencies and other providers of outdoor recreation opportunities that may include those with special physical needs or movement challenges.

Elements of the sessions and larger support services may include:
• Training in building disability planning into your safety and emergency procedures
• Support in assessing a trail or scenic location for inclusive programming
• Training in customizing program details to meet the needs of people with mobility challenges, developmental disabilities, or other disability concerns.
• Support in building connections with other providers and potential participants involved in the inclusive outdoor arena

If you have any questions regarding organizing or logistics for offering a workshop, please reach out to Nature Disability Advocate, Sean Kane Holland at sean@pinelandsalliance.org or call 609-859-8860 ext. 117.

Recap the Access Nature Forum with Flat Rock Brook Nature Center. The nature center is a 150-acre preserve in Englewood, NJ (Bergen County) with 3.6 miles of trails open and free to the public from dawn to dusk daily 365 days a year. Flat Rock Brook is committed to ensuring our preserve and our facilities are as accessible to all as possible, and would like you to join us to meet our team and hear about our projects and plans.

The discussion will include how they are making nature accessible, topics will cover:

  • Accessible Trails
  • Nature Playground
  • Restroom Facilities
  • Bridge and Pathways
  • Gazebo and Picnic Areas
  • Parking

The Best Day Ever documentary follows adaptive mountain bikers Greg Durso and Allie Bianchi as they tackle the daily challenges of disability—and find joy, connection, and belonging in Vermont’s mountain biking community.

This is a story of grit, independence, and what’s possible when community and creativity come together. At its heart is the world’s first fully adaptive trail network—built to prove that everyone belongs outside.

Best Day Ever challenges perceptions of disability and celebrates community.

They’re raising funds to expand adaptive trails and equipment access—because for a wheelchair user, a mountain bike isn’t just fun. It’s freedom.

Check out the video and full story – https://www.bestdayever.mov/?blm_aid=2582740493