We Need Your Help! Volunteer to Ensure Accessible Elections

Disability Rights DC (DRDC) is seeking volunteers to help monitor the accessibility of DC’s vote centers and ballot drop boxes during the 2024 General Election. From October 28 to November 5, 2024, volunteers will survey designated locations to ensure they are accessible to individuals with disabilities, assessing features like accessible pathways and audio-visual aids. The information collected will be used to advocate for improvements in future elections. Your participation will help protect the voting rights of people with disabilities.

DC Assistive Technology Program

Trinity College Students Explore Assistive Technology with DCATP

For October, the DC Assistive Technology Program (DCATP) is excited to welcome occupational therapy students from Trinity College for a unique learning experience. These students will immerse themselves in the various programs and services that DCATP offers, gaining hands-on knowledge of the wide range of assistive technology available to individuals with disabilities. They will observe product demonstrations showcasing devices designed to enhance functionality and independence by compensating for challenges related to vision, hearing, memory, speech, communication, and movement.

This opportunity allows the students to deepen their understanding of how assistive technology can significantly improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and older adults. DCATP is proud to contribute to the training of future professionals who will play an essential role in ensuring greater access to these critical tools.

AT and Employment with George Washington University

Leonard McPherson from DCATP will be conducting a virtual presentation for George Washington University staff and students on the crucial topic of Assistive Technology and Employment. Scheduled for October, this presentation aligns with National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of inclusive employment practices for individuals with disabilities.

During the session, Leonard will explore how assistive technology can play a vital role in enhancing employment opportunities and workplace accessibility for people with disabilities. Participants will gain insights into the various tools and resources available that support individuals in navigating the job market and achieving their professional goals. This presentation is an excellent opportunity for both staff and students to learn about the intersection of assistive technology and employment, fostering a more inclusive environment at George Washington University.

DC Shares, our Durable Medical Equipment Recycling Program, is in need of medium pull-ups or diapers, gloves, and other incontinence supplies. Please contact DC Shares Equipment Recycling Coordinator Reginald Taylor at (202) 332-2595 or rtaylor@uls-dc.org to support!

Disability Rights DC

Voting Access Report on the 2024 Primary Election

Disability Rights DC (DRDC) was able to survey all 75 vote center locations and all 55 ballot drop boxes utilized during the Primary and found 72% of vote centers to be inaccessible. 10.67% of vote centers were structurally inaccessible (an increase from the 2022 General Election, where 7% of surveyed vote centers were structurally inaccessible) and 70.67% of vote centers were operationally inaccessible (similar to the 2022 General Election, where 70% of surveyed vote centers were operationally inaccessible). 14.54% of ballot drop boxes were inaccessible (similar to the 2022 General Election, where 14% of surveyed drop boxes were operationally inaccessible and 1 drop box was structurally inaccessible).

In light of these findings, it is clear that much work remains to be done to ensure equal access to the democratic process for all individuals, particularly those with disabilities. DRDC urges local election officials and policymakers to prioritize accessibility improvements at both vote centers and ballot drop boxes. By implementing necessary changes and adhering to best practices for accessibility, we can create a more inclusive electoral environment where every voter can exercise their right to participate fully and independently. Together, we can work towards a future where accessibility is not an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of our electoral system. Sign up to help monitor the 2024 General Election this November!

Housing Counseling Program

Check Out Our Housing Webinars!

Every month, the Housing Counseling Program (HCP) holds webinars to help residents navigate DC’s housing programs. Our webinars cover the Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP), the Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) Program, and the Single Family Residential Rehabilitation Program (SFRRP). We also offer select webinars in Spanish. Learn more and register below!

Jail and Prison Advocacy Program

Marijuana Legal Pardon Clinic

If you have a simple marijuana offense on your record, you may be able to receive a federal pardon. Join Legal Aid DC for a FREE legal clinic to get help with your application.

At the clinic, a lawyer can help attendees submit pardon applications online. Attendees can learn more about the pardon and what it could mean for you, and can speak with someone about sealing your criminal record alongside your pardon application. Learn more here.

Join us on Monday, October 21 from 12:30pm-3:30pm at Legal Aid DC, 1331 H Street NW, Suite 350 Washington, DC 20005

Tenant Purchase Assistance Program

Celebrating a Major Grant Win, but Work Still Awaits

Over forty years ago, tenants formed a tenant's association and then a housing cooperative to purchase their 17-unit rental building after the owner decided to sell the building. Built in 1920, the building required extensive repairs. With assistance from ULS, the co-op completed a moderate renovation in 1989. Now, ULS is helping the co-op upgrade the electrical system and install high-efficiency heating and air conditioning systems due to the failure of the original steam boiler system and piping.

Over the past three years, the co-op has also applied for grants to several DC agencies to make energy efficiency upgrades and other critical repairs. The co-op is waiting to hear if at least one of these grants will be approved in 2025 so the co-op can make additional upgrades and continue to provide quality, affordable housing for its residents for many more years.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project!

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