The Access Center

09/12/2025

At the Access Center, we understand that stability, support, and community can make a significant impact. As we observe National Su***de Prevention Month this September, we stand with the global initiative to break the stigma, spread hope, and remind everyone: you are not alone.

Every conversation counts. Every act of kindness counts. Together, we can build a community where every person feels seen, valued, and supported. 💙

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available: Call or text 988 for the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

***dePrevention

09/12/2025

September is National Service Dog Month, dedicated to honoring the incredible animals who assist Americans with vision impairments, medical conditions, mental health challenges, and more. These specially trained service dogs provide essential support and therapy, enjoying special legal protections that allow them and their owners access to places where animals are typically not allowed. The Access Center extends our heartfelt gratitude to these remarkable service dogs, whose unwavering dedication brings independence, safety, and love to countless individuals every day.

09/11/2025

Join us tomorrow! Register with Barbara at barbara.butler@acils.com or call (937)341-5202

**📣🍚 Celebrate National Rice Month with Us! 🍚📣**

**Join us for the Kitchen Connection Cooking Class on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM!**

**This month, we’re focusing on simplicity, affordability, and taste by making homemade fried rice. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to whip up and fits any budget. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, this class is all about learning, sharing, and connecting with the community.**

**🌟 Special Guest Appearance 🌟**

**We’re pleased to welcome Loraine Wyatt from Dementia Alliance International. She will share insights into her organization’s mission, its impact, and the importance of dementia support and advocacy in our community.**

**💡 Don’t miss out on the chance to:**

**✔️ Master a new recipe**

**✔️ Connect with others in a welcoming, inclusive environment**

**✔️ Acquire valuable information about dementia and community resources**

**📍 Date: Friday, Sept 12, 2025 • 11:00 AM**

**📍 Location: 165 E. Helena Street, Dayton, OH 45404**

**💲 Cost: FREE (brief intake required)**

**👉 Sign up today: Contact Barbara Thomas at barbara.butler@acils.com or call (937) 341-5202!**

**Let’s come together to cook, learn, and grow! 🥘**

09/10/2025

**📣🍚 Celebrate National Rice Month with Us! 🍚📣**

**Join us for the Kitchen Connection Cooking Class on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM!**

**This month, we’re focusing on simplicity, affordability, and taste by making homemade fried rice. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to whip up and fits any budget. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, this class is all about learning, sharing, and connecting with the community.**

**🌟 Special Guest Appearance 🌟**

**We’re pleased to welcome Loraine Wyatt from Dementia Alliance International. She will share insights into her organization’s mission, its impact, and the importance of dementia support and advocacy in our community.**

**💡 Don’t miss out on the chance to:**

**✔️ Master a new recipe**

**✔️ Connect with others in a welcoming, inclusive environment**

**✔️ Acquire valuable information about dementia and community resources**

**📍 Date: Friday, Sept 12, 2025 • 11:00 AM**

**📍 Location: 165 E. Helena Street, Dayton, OH 45404**

**💲 Cost: FREE (brief intake required)**

**👉 Sign up today: Contact Barbara Thomas at barbara.butler@acils.com or call (937) 341-5202!**

**Let’s come together to cook, learn, and grow! 🥘**

09/10/2025

Join us at The Access Center for a Town Hall! 🗓️ Dayton residents, mark your calendars for Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Head over to 165 E Helena St, Dayton, OH 45404, and meet some of Dayton's most dedicated public servants, including Shenise Turner-Sloss, who's running for Mayor, and Darryl Fairchild and Jacob Davis, candidates for City Commission.

Let's come together to discuss investing in our neighborhoods, creating opportunities for families, and ensuring your voice is heard. Your community matters! 🌟

09/08/2025

🌟 **Championing Change: Your Guide to Legislative Advocacy** 🌟

Ever hear the saying, “If you don’t like the law, change it”? Now’s the time to take that advice to heart! Legislative advocacy offers a unique opportunity to work with lawmakers on issues that matter. It's vital for those with disabilities and their supporters to be heard. Your voice can influence public policy!

📌 **Tips for Effective Advocacy:**

- Build strong connections with your legislator and their team to boost your influence.
- Attend city council meetings to actively participate in local government.
- Thoroughly understand your issue and be prepared to explain it clearly.
- Set a clear and specific objective to communicate effectively.
- Learn the legislative process to navigate it with confidence.

Ready to connect with your senator or representative? Reach out by email, mail, or phone. Discover your local legislators at legislature.ohio.gov and start making an impact today! For additional tips and support, contact The Access Center at 937-341-5202 or info@acils.com.

09/05/2025

Be sure to follow us on all of our social media platforms! Connect with us!

09/05/2025

Big News from The Access Center! 🌟 We now offer Independent Living Plans (ILPs). 🎯

An ILP serves as your blueprint for independence, helping individuals with disabilities to set and accomplish their personal goals. Whether you aim to enhance life skills, improve social connections, or secure employment, an ILP is customized to fit your unique aspirations. 🗺️🤝

Our IL Specialists are ready to assist you every step of the way, providing resources and support as you steer your own path. It's all about making your own decisions and creating timelines that suit you. 📅✨

Want to create your ILP? Contact us at 937-341-5202 or email info@acils.com to begin your journey to independence. Let’s achieve those goals together! 💪

09/04/2025

📣🍚 It’s National Rice Month! 🍚📣
We’re excited to invite you to our next Kitchen Connection Cooking Class happening Friday, September 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM!

This month we’re keeping it simple, affordable, and delicious by making homemade fried rice—a versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any budget. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this class is all about learning, sharing, and connecting with community.

🌟 Special Guest Highlight🌟
We’re honored to welcome Loraine Wyatt with Dementia Alliance International. She will be speaking about the purpose of her organization, the impact it has, and why it’s so important for our community to be informed about dementia support and advocacy.

💡 Don’t miss this opportunity to:
✔️ Learn a new recipe
✔️ Connect with others in a supportive, inclusive space
✔️ Gain valuable knowledge about dementia and community resources

📍 When: Friday, Sept 12, 2025 • 11:00 AM
📍 Where: 165 E. Helena Street, Dayton, OH 45404
💲 Cost: FREE (short intake required)

👉 Register today: Barbara Thomas at barbara.butler@acils.com or (937) 341-5202!

Let’s come together to cook, learn, and grow! 🥘

09/02/2025

Has the Access Center for Independent Living (ACIL) assisted you with housing, resources, or developing independent living skills? We’d love to hear from you! 🙌 Since 1984, we've been dedicated to empowering individuals in Dayton and beyond. Now, we’re asking YOU to help share the message!

We’re thrilled to feature YOUR stories on our social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok. Whether it's a personal success or an advocacy issue you care deeply about, we want to highlight your experiences to inspire others. 💪✨

Ready to share your journey or discuss an important cause? Contact our Independent Living and Communications Specialist, Allison Boot, at 937-341-5202 Ext 114 or email allison.boot@acils.com.

Let’s show the world that individuals with disabilities can thrive and lead fulfilling lives! 🌟

09/02/2025

Join us at the The Access Center for a Town Hall! 🗓️ for residents of Dayton on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Come to 165 E Helena St, Dayton, OH 45404, and meet some of Dayton's most dedicated public servants including Shenise Turner-Sloss who is running for Mayor as well Darryl Fairchild and Jacob Davis who are candidates for City Commission.

Let's discuss how we can invest in our neighborhoods, create opportunities for families, and ensure your voice is heard. Your community matters! 🌟

09/01/2025