DMI Member Accessibility Services Opportunity
New Opportunity for DMI Members!
In partnership with Access to Independence, Downtown Madison, Inc. (DMI) is going to be offering accessibility consultation or technical assistance services to a limited number of DMI members, at no cost! DMI has been working for several years to create a downtown that is accessible and inclusive for all people with disabilities, and this new opportunity will help us toward that goal. This project is being funded through a Livable Communities Grant awarded to Access to Independence by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
What’s being offered?
Access to Independence is a leader in providing accessibility consultation and technical assistance services, and has a menu of options they are willing to provide at no cost over the next several months.
Services include:
- Accessibility Evaluations for buildings, spaces (such as parks), or blueprints and designs: Trained evaluators will identify ways to improve the accessibility of your current or future space, and provide recommendations in a non-binding report. That report can be used for project planning, or to seek funds for improvements.
- Website Accessibility Evaluations: As more goods and services are provided online, it’s crucial that websites are accessible to all users. Unfortunately, most of our websites contain inaccessible content, navigation, and links. Trained evaluators will use specialized tools and manual testing to identify accessibility issues on your website. Recommendations are provided and can be used by web developers or staff responsible for website maintenance and updates.
- Event Accessibility Consultation and Technical Assistance: Does your business hold corporate events? Are you part of a local event planning committee or organization? Trained evaluators can enhance the accessibility of both planning and implementation of events – from registration and event promotion, to the event itself, by evaluating factors such as parking, paths of travel, signage, performances, seating, concession, and more. A non-binding report with recommendations would be provided after an evaluation. Technical assistance for an upcoming event is another available option.
- Disability Inclusion and Accessibility Training: Creating an inclusive environment isn’t just about accessible physical spaces; it’s also about how employees, staff, and volunteers interact with individuals of all abilities and ages. Fostering an inclusive workplace is key to hiring and retaining talented employees with disabilities. If these considerations align with your business or organization’s goals, Access to Independence can provide customized training to meet your needs.
I’m Interested, and Want to Apply for this Free Opportunity!
If one of these services sounds like just what you need, complete this form. Access to Independence and DMI will review requests for services and will decide among the applications. Please complete this form by Friday, October 4, 2024.
What if My Business or Organization is Selected?
DMI staff will reach out to selected members to discuss next steps, and connect them with Access to Independence. Access to Independence will then schedule an initial meeting, and provide a detailed scope of work. Services will be provided as early as October, but need to be completed by February 28, 2025.
What happens if I’m not selected, or if I’m not ready to do this now?
Access to Independence has a well-established Accessibility Services program. They have a variety of satisfied clients, and would be happy to meet at a later time to discuss your accessibility needs. Contact them at: 608-242-8484 or info@accesstoind.org.
I have questions!
We have answers. Reach out to: Carly Major, Accessibility Services Specialist with Access to Independence at 608-716-3675 or carlym@accesstoind.org with questions or if an alternative format or assistance is needed to complete the interest form.
Testimonials:
“Access to Independence reviewed our new building plans at a point in design when we were able to make thoughtful changes they suggested that will help increase accessibility for all who use our space. Their approach ensured that our design was inclusive and made our team think differently about how we move through space.”
-Bill Fedun, Director Of Facilities, Safety & Security | TruStage
“The accessibility assessment of six Library locations performed by Access to Independence will inform our future facility development, including the Imagination Center at Reindahl Park. Access to our services for all members of the community is at the forefront of our mission, and the expertise Access to Independence provided is unique. Their consultants were great to work with, and delivered a thorough analysis that we find extremely valuable.”
-Mark E. Benno, Administrative Services Manager | Madison Public Library