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Save the date: Free trainings on ADA and accessibility
Interested in improving accessibility and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance in your community?
The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) is hosting free ADA trainings on November 15 (pilot), January 18, March 1, April 18, and April 19, 2023. These half-day, interactive workshops will be located throughout the region.
You'll learn about ADA and Title II requirements, how to complete a self-evaluation, the role of an ADA coordinator, and how to develop a transition plan. The training is intended for municipal staff, ADA coordinators, community leaders, and anyone interested in learning how to make their communities more accessible.
Limited spots are available for the November 15 pilot. Registration is open through Friday, November 11.
Stay tuned for more information about the 2023 trainings.
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 Rachel Arfa, Commissioner for the City of Chicago Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities. Photo Credit: City Club of Chicago
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How Chicago is investing in disability employment and promoting inclusive hiring practices
At a recent City Club of Chicago event, Rachel Arfa, Commissioner for the City of Chicago Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD), discussed initiatives to increase hiring of employees with disabilities.
MOPD's new Career Center, which launched this summer, will help people with disabilities gain access to meaningful and sustainable career opportunities. Arfa also shared how her office is encouraging employers to increase their inclusive hiring practices and expanding other services to meet the needs of the disability community.
Commissioner Arfa is the first deaf commissioner of MOPD, and the highest-ranking deaf person in municipal government nationwide.
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 A classroom in Uganda with the Ugandan Sign language alphabet drawn on the wall. Photo credit: UNICEF/Uganda/Barbeyrac
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Celebrating International Day of People with Disabilities
December 3 is International Day of People with Disabilities. Started in 1992 by the United Nations, the day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities.
This year's global observance is scheduled for Monday, December 5, with an overarching theme of innovation and transformative solutions for inclusive development. Topics include innovation in employment, reducing inequality, and sports.
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Have you worked on an accessibility project that has made northeastern Illinois more inclusive and thriving?
CMAP looks forward to celebrating our region’s accomplishments in spring 2023 with the return of our Regional Excellence Awards. This awards program offers a unique opportunity for municipal leaders, nonprofits, transportation agencies, and advocates to have their exceptional work recognized by peers from across northeastern Illinois.
CMAP is seeking nominations for individuals and projects that prioritize equity, strengthen the resiliency of our 284 communities, and make them more economically competitive. Submit your nomination today!
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