The Access Center

09/01/2026

# Influential People with Disabilities Who Changed the World!

👨‍🔬 Stephen Hawking – An astrophysicist with ALS who transformed our understanding of the universe.

🧏‍♀️ Marlee Matlin– The first Deaf actress to receive an Oscar.

👩‍🏫 Helen Keller – The first Deaf-Blind individual to obtain a college degree. Despite losing her sight and hearing as a child, Helen learned to communicate through touch. She became a fierce advocate for disability rights, education, and women’s suffrage. Additionally, she co-founded the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and traveled globally to champion inclusivity.

Let’s remember that individuals with disabilities can truly be game-changers!

09/01/2026

January: Mental Wellness Month
January is designated as Mental Wellness Month, a perfect opportunity to reflect, reset, and give priority to our emotional well-being. Remember, mental wellness isn't about being cheerful all the time; it's about developing coping strategies, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support when life becomes challenging.

At The Access Center we understand that mental wellness is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Taking small, intentional steps can result in significant growth. 🌱

💜 Your mental wellness is important—now and always.

07/01/2026

🎉 Kickstart the New Year with the Access Center! 🎉

Thinking about setting meaningful goals for 2026? Consider starting an Independent Living Plan (ILP) with ACIL! 🌟 An ILP is your personalized guide to achieving independence, crafted especially for individuals with disabilities. Whether you aim to enhance life skills, expand social networks, or secure employment, an ILP aligns with your unique aspirations. 🚀🤝

Our dedicated IL Specialists are here to support and guide you as you take charge of your journey. You’ll have the freedom to make choices and set timelines that resonate with your vision. 📆✨

Don’t wait—begin your path to independence today! Contact us at 937-341-5202 or email info@acils.com. Let's embark on this empowering journey together! 💪

07/01/2026

🌟 Stay Informed with Enabling Access! 🌟

Stay up-to-date with the latest happenings from the Access Center for Independent Living! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter, Enabling Access, and be among the first to learn about our events, advocacy opportunities, and more in Dayton and its surrounding areas.

Join us in empowering residents of Dayton and nearby communities to thrive in their chosen environments! Sign up now to receive future newsletters directly in your inbox.

🔗 Subscribe at http://www.acils.com/news

Enabling Access (Nov ’25) Consumer Corner-Georgie Elson: Championing Advocacy Through Art and Resilience Georgie Elson: Championing Advocacy Through Art and Resilience  In a world that often overlooks the voices of those with disabilities, Georgie Elson stands as a Read More » November 14, 2025

05/01/2026

Stay Updated on Access Center Events!

Our organization has a plethora of thrilling events lined up for 2026! Be sure to check our events calendar frequently: Access Center Events Calendar https://acils.com/event-calendar/

05/01/2026

Happy 2026! Crafting New Year's resolutions with a disability means setting realistic, energy-conscious goals that prioritize well-being. Embrace flexibility and redefine success by including disability-specific aims like advocacy, building support, skill development, or improving accessibility. Focus on small, actionable habits, honor your energy levels, and plan for changes. Discover joy in accessible activities!

🔑 Mindset & Approach:
• Prioritize energy and time
• Embrace flexibility
• Redefine success
• Focus on feelings

💪 Disability-Specific Resolutions:
• Advocacy & identity
• Health & mobility
• Support systems
• Accessibility
• Skill building

📝 Practical Tips:
• Be specific (SMART Goals)
• Start small
• Incorporate FUN (Focus, Understand, Nurture)
• Explore alternatives

Set goals that make you feel good and celebrate every small win! 💫

27/12/2025

With a heavy heart we share of the passing of Bob Kafka, a leader and disability rights activist. Bob Kafka was a renowned Disability Rights Activist for over forty years. Bob not only co-directed the Institute for Disability Access but was a lead organizer for ADAPT and REV UP Texas. He was a familiar voice on Barrier Free Futures, where he discussed key disability issues since 2018.

Over 25 years ago, Lex Frieden and Bob Kafka were in front of the U.S. Supreme Court advocating for the rights of people with disabilities to live in their homes and communities.

The world lost a powerful activist. Rest in power Bob 💔😢

22/12/2025

Looking for fun and accessible winter activities? ACIL has compiled a fantastic list for you and your family to enjoy this season! ❄️

🏛️ Visit a Museum or Art Gallery: Explore the National Museum of the Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, or discover art spanning 5,000 years at the Dayton Art Institute.

📚 Find a Good Book or Podcast: Dive into audiobooks or podcasts through apps like Hoopla, Libby, Pandora, and Play Podcast.

👩‍🍳 Try a New Recipe: Get cooking with ACIL’s Kitchen Connection and enhance your culinary skills while connecting with others.

🎶 Make Music: Learn a new instrument or explore virtual music resources for adaptive music options at https://virtualpiano.net/virtual-music-instruments/.

🕹️ Play Digital Games for Charity: Enjoy card games, word games, and puzzles while supporting charities at games.greatergood.com.

⛷️ Try an Adaptive Winter Sport: Join Adaptive Sports Connection for activities like skiing and snowboarding.

🎨 Arts & Crafts: Discover endless arts and crafts ideas and adaptations with Davis Art’s free video library at https://www.davisart.com/free-resources/adaptive-art-resources/.

Stay safe and warm while enjoying these activities! Contact ACIL at 937-341-5202 or info@acils.com for more information.

Play virtual music instruments online using the Virtual Piano platform. Select your instrument, play on your computer, tablet or mobile!

22/12/2025

The Access Center will be closed December 23rd 2025 through January 4th 2026 in celebration of the holidays. We will resume service January 5th 2026 We wish everyone a joyous holiday season and happy New Year!

19/12/2025

🎉 Hot off the presses! Dive into the December 2025 edition of The Access Center Newsletter, "Enabling Access." Discover the expansion of Ohio's 911 database, learn about the Empowered Residents of Dayton Advocacy Network, and ger details about the exciting ACIL events planned for 2026. Plus, get tips on fun, accessible winter activities and meet consumer and board member Wanda Sloan. Don’t miss out on this must-read edition! 📬

🔗 Read more: https://mailchi.mp/acils/enabling-access-december-2025-edition-acil-newsletter-12931414

📩 Sign up for direct delivery: www.acils.com/news

Enabling Access (Nov ’25) Consumer Corner-Georgie Elson: Championing Advocacy Through Art and Resilience Georgie Elson: Championing Advocacy Through Art and Resilience  In a world that often overlooks the voices of those with disabilities, Georgie Elson stands as a Read More » November 14, 2025

19/12/2025

Keep up with the latest happenings at the Access Center! Don’t forget to visit our events calendar often: https://acils.com/event-calendar/

19/12/2025

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