Ahoi App

09/28/2024

🚀 Ready to explore the world with ease? Here’s your step-by-step guide to using Ahoi! ♿️✨

Swipe through 👉 to see how you can find accessible spots in just a few taps! Whether you’re looking for a wheelchair-friendly café or a step-free park, Ahoi has you covered. 💖

📱 Download Ahoi today and discover places that welcome everyone.

09/23/2024

🌟 “Accessibility is not a privilege, it’s a right.” ♿️💪

At Ahoi, we believe in a world where everyone can explore freely without barriers. Our app is designed to help you find places that are actually accessible for your specific needs around you and beyond, and COMING SOON side walk navigation tailered to you. Let’s make the world more inclusive together! 

📱Download Ahoi now and find accessible spots near you. 
🔗Link in bio

   

09/13/2024

What an unforgettable night at Fenway Park this past Tuesday watching the Boston Red Sox take on the Baltimore Orioles. ⚾✨

We had the opportunity to bring the entire Ahoi internship program together to celebrate everyone’s accomplishments and to thank MRC for their unwavering support of the program. It was an evening of pure fun and camaraderie! 🌃❤️

We cheered, laughed, and created memories under the stadium lights. 🌟
Here’s to more nights like this and an amazing journey ahead with Ahoi and MRC! 🙌🔥



📸✨ Swipe for the best moments from the night! ➡️✨📸

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🚀❤️

09/13/2024

📰✨ Big News! ✨📰

We’re thrilled to share that Ahoi has been featured in the for our groundbreaking partnership with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission MRC! 🚀

This summer, we had the honor of welcoming 21 amazing interns, from across Massachusetts for a three-month journey of learning and growth. 🌟

Our mission? To champion accessibility and create opportunities for ALL. And with the support of the MRC, we’re doing just that! 💪❤️

Catch the full article in the for more details on our journey and future plans. Link in bio! 🌐✨



Don’t forget to hit that ❤️ and share this post to spread the word about creating a more accessible future for everyone! 🙌

01/06/2024

🚨 Ensuring Inclusive Emergency Planning for All 🌐 🚨

Hey friends, did you know that state and local governments play a crucial role in protecting us during emergencies and disasters? From alert systems to transportation and shelter programs, it's essential that these services are accessible for everyone, including those with disabilities.

📢 Emergency Alerts:
People with disabilities face challenges during emergencies as many warning systems aren't accessible. Let's advocate for both visual and audible alerts, electronic methods like text messaging, and sign language interpreters for inclusive communication.

🚗 Evacuation and Transportation:
During evacuations, individuals with disabilities may encounter difficulties. State/local governments can enhance accessibility by planning for diverse needs, using accessible transportation, and creating registries to assist those who need it most.

🏠 Emergency Shelter Programs:
Shelters must offer equal access to all, including those with disabilities. Modifications should be made when reasonable, ensuring physical accessibility and accommodating unique needs.

📣 Communication is Key:
Effective communication is critical. Governments should provide accessible documents, use sign language interpreters, and consider TTYs for effective communication with those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech difficulties.

📚 Learn More:
For further reading, check out Emergency Management under Title II of the ADA (PDF):https://archive.ada.gov/pcatoolkit/chap7emergencymgmt.pdf

01/03/2024

🌟 Hey, explorers! 🌆 We need your help! 🤔 We're on the lookout for the best accessible activities and sights in Cincinnati, Ohio. 🚗 Whether it's an iconic landmark, a cozy cafe, or a hidden gem – we want to hear YOUR suggestions! 🗣️ Drop your recommendations below and let's make the ultimate accessible guide to Cincy! 🤩🗺️

🏞️🍽️

01/01/2024

🎉 Welcoming 2024 with open arms! 🌟

Let's make this year about inclusivity and
accessibility. Excited to spread the word
about accessible venues in the US and
beyond! Let's create a world where
everyone feels welcome. Cheers to a year of
even more positive change!

12/30/2023

Not only do we value your feedback when it comes to using our app, but we also really need your feedback and input when it comes to the content we create for social media!

Do you have any suggestions for us for 2024? Would you like to see more posts detailing accessible things to see and do in cities and towns across the U.S.? Perhaps you would like to see more posts relating to ADA legislation? Maybe you’re the type of person who enjoys posts regarding various facts and figures on disability and accessibility.

Whatever your jam is, we want to know about it! Help us tailor the content you want to engage with on both Facebook and Instagram!

Cheers, and see you in 2024!!

12/29/2023

As 2023 draws to a close, we’d love to know what you guys have planned for 2024? Here at Ahoi we plan on focusing on all the same things as we did this year. That’s to say we plan on continuing with the building of our community both within app and also across social media, making upgrades and improvements, promoting accessible venues and our community-driven reviews, and educating all those that will listen on the importance of inclusion and access for all!

Can’t wait to see what the next year will bring! Let’s tackle access discrimination, together! 💪🏼

12/27/2023

Are you a business owner who wants to make their business environment and/or venue more accessible for all? Perhaps you’ve recently learned about the need to be ADA-compliant at your premises. Here are five helpful tips to get you started!

CREATING AN ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCE:

Things to consider include ramps and lifts, as well as automatic doors. If installing a ramp, be sure to check the correct gradient requirements for your country's regulations. In the USA, a ramp gradient must be no steeper than 1:12. This equates to a slope percentage no greater than 8.33%.

Automatic doors benefit more than just those using wheelchairs. For improved access, try to avoid button-operated automatic doors as not every wheelchair user or person with a disability will be able to use these buttons independently.

ACCESSIBLE RESTROOMS:

Ensure that restroom doorways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. The recommended width is typically at least 32 inches (81 cm). Install accessible bathroom fixtures, including grab bars, accessible sinks, and toilets with proper clear space. Follow guidelines such as the ADA Standards for Accessible Design to create functional and comfortable restroom facilities. It’s important to also consider things such as wheelchair turning circles, and how the restroom door opens and closes.

CLEAR AND ACCESSIBLE PATHWAYS:

Make sure that all pathways within your premises are clear of obstacles. Not only this crucial for wheelchair users to navigate comfortably, but it is also important for those with other forms of mobility issues, who may find obstacles to be a tripping hazard. The same can also be said for those using your premises who have a visual impairment.

Another thing to consider is making sure that your surfaces are non-slip as these materials provide better traction and are slip-resistant. This is important to enhance the safety of wheelchair users as well as other individuals who may have difficulty walking.

ACCESSIBLE PARKING FACILITIES:

Allocate and mark accessible parking spaces close to the entrance. Ensure that there is a proper accessible route from these spaces to the main entrance and that the surfaces are level.

Install clear signage indicating the location of accessible parking spaces and the route to the entrance. Use universally recognized symbols for accessibility.

TRAINING AND AWARENESS BUILDING:

It’s super advisable to offer your staff some training and awareness courses. By doing this, you can help ensure your staff knows how to offer assistance to customers who may have a disability. This includes understanding how to assist wheelchair users and being knowledgeable about the accessible features of your premises.

Communicate your commitment to accessibility on your website, social media, and within your physical premises. Make it easy for customers to request assistance or provide feedback on accessibility.

By implementing these tips, business owners can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals with disabilities. Regularly review and update your accessibility features to ensure they meet evolving standards and address the diverse needs of your customers. Finally, as mentioned, consult with regulatory guidelines in your area, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act.

12/21/2023

Check out this very informative graphic from the CDC's website which gives some general facts, figures, and statistics surrounding disability: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/infographic-disability-impacts-all.html

View an infographic snapshot of disability in the United States.

12/19/2023

Looking for accessible suggestions of things to see and do in Orlando, FL, that don’t include the usual Disney recommendations? Check out these 5 epic ideas:.

𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐄𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤
Lake Eola Park is a beautiful urban park located in downtown Orlando. The park features a picturesque lake with swan boats, walking paths, and stunning views of the city skyline. The park is wheelchair-accessible, and you can enjoy a relaxing day strolling around the lake or having a picnic.

𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐏. 𝐋𝐞𝐮 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐬
Explore the Harry P. Leu Gardens, a 50-acre botanical garden near downtown Orlando. The gardens showcase a wide variety of plants, including tropical and subtropical plants, palms, roses, and more. The pathways are accessible, providing a peaceful and visually appealing experience.

𝐎𝐫𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞
The Orlando Science Center offers interactive exhibits and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. The center is committed to accessibility, with ramps and elevators available throughout the facility. It's a great place for families to engage in hands-on learning and exploration.

𝐈𝐂𝐎𝐍 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤
ICON Park is an entertainment complex on International Drive that features restaurants, shops, and attractions. The Wheel, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel, provides stunning views of the city. ICON Park is designed to be wheelchair-accessible, and you can enjoy a variety of dining and entertainment options.

𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐮𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐫𝐭
The Rollins Museum of Art, situated on the Rollins College campus in Winter Park (a suburb of Orlando), boasts a rich collection of art that spans various periods and cultures. The museum is committed to accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its cultural offerings. The museum has free admission.

Remember to check with each attraction regarding their current accessibility features, as they may update or modify facilities over time. Additionally, it's advisable to contact the venues directly or visit their websites for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

Any recommendations to add?

12/18/2023

As we fast approach the time of year when many of us are lucky enough to have some time off work and spend the holiday season with loved ones, it’s also a time when people tend to do the most traveling and visiting of new places!

So, with that in mind - where are you all heading in the lead-up to Christmas and where will you be celebrating this year?

Will you be visiting any venues that are great for accessibility? Be it restaurants, shopping malls, or even a winter wonderland with the kids - we want to know about it! Maybe there’s something that you and your family do every year to make your Christmas experience more inclusive. Let us know in the comments!

12/15/2023

🥇 Nominate a venue in your city that you believe deserves a spotlight for its outstanding accessibility. Comment with the venue name and location, and we'll check it out!

It can be anywhere from your favorite restaurant downtown that just happens to have amazing access to a museum you visited a while back that had an incredibly sensory room and tactile exhibitions - let us know!

💥 We’ll spotlight some of the best in future posts and credit you for your awesome suggestion!

12/13/2023

Whether it’s heading out somewhere new for drinks or trying to plan a trip somewhere you’ve never been before, finding information on disability access can be a challenge. We want to hear about how you do it! How do you usually find the accessibility information you need to make your outing as smooth and anxiety-free as possible?

12/09/2023

Are you based in the U.S. and know a thing or two about what it takes to call a venue accessible? Maybe you’ve been faced with access nightmare after access nightmare and just want to share some warnings of places to steer clear of. Why not join our community and share your real-time experience and expert knowledge on where’s accessible and where’s not in your area, or when on your travels!

Our app, Ahoi, focuses on community-driven information and updates, which means it doesn’t matter if you’re searching for Sushi in downtown Boston, or Margaritas in Manhattan, Ahoi is a way to share valuable information that will help other folks with disabilities in the disabled community be better informed.

Any questions? Don’t be afraid to reach out! We can improve accessibility for all, together!

12/08/2023

Happy Friday, guys!

Here's a fun question for you all...

Let us know your answer in the comments below!

12/05/2023

Interested to know your thoughts on this one! 🤔

Is it ever acceptable for a person that is not disabled to use an accessible bathroom if it is free?

Let us know in the comments down below 👇