Accessible Walla Walla

11/17/2023

A documentary on , who suffered a spinal cord injury while a stunt double for the Harry Potter movies. A brave story is being told here. We suggest you put it on your watch list soon.

Add ‘David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived’ to your watch list! The documentary looks at the friendship that formed between Daniel Radcliffe and his main stunt double, who acquired a on the set of Harry Potter.
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I’m lying in bed just watching the sunrise reminding myself to be grateful of what today is about to bring. It's New York premiere day ,the first time I'm going to share with the world our film and my story. I want to take this moment of calm before the storm remind myself to be grateful. Grateful I survived grateful for the love I have in my life I'm grateful for all the people who made this possible. Finally I want to be hopeful hopeful that this film starts bigger conversation around disability the value of stunt departments and the necessity for hope in all our lives

11/12/2023

This is exciting. We would love to raise the funds for these chairs out at Bennington Lake. In the mean time, if your headed to the coast, check out this article.

🌊 Exciting News from Florence, Oregon! 🌊

“We're thrilled to announce the launch of David's Chair, (.now.i.can)a fantastic initiative that's making the beach and ocean more accessible for everyone in our community.

Now, individuals with mobility challenges can reserve a track chair, free of charge, to enjoy the beautiful beaches in Florence, Oregon. Thanks to David's Chair Outdoor Mobility Systems and your support to pass the Lane County Parks Levy this past November 2023, this initiative is now a reality. The track chair is conveniently housed at Driftwood Shores Resort.

To reserve the track chair, head over to https://davidschair.org/request-fixed-location-chair/ and use their user-friendly online portal. Please avoid calling Driftwood Shores Resort, as reservations are exclusively managed through David's Chair website.”

👉For more information on accessibility amenities on the Oregon Coast click here :https://visittheoregoncoast.com/travelability-on-the-oregon-coast/

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11/10/2023

Happy Veteran's Day! Celebrate with us tomorrow, Saturday, November 11, at our annual Veterans Day Parade.

The Parade will begin at 11:11 am. Please come downtown and show our support for our local Veterans and their families.
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📷 courtesy of Amy White - A by A Photography
Event hosted by the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation

11/10/2023

According to VA Claims Insider, In 2023, there will be an estimated 14,873,966 disabled veterans, roughly 80% of the veteran population. We salute our Veterans for making the great sacrifice of serving our country.

11/05/2023

This is awesome! Swiss duo sweeps men's, women's wheelchair events at the 2023 New York City Marathon.

The wheelchair events were swept by athletes from Switzerland as Marcel Hug, nicknamed the “Silver Bullet” won the men’s event for the third consecutive year and a record sixth overall, just 3 seconds off the event record he set just last year, crossing the finish line at 1:25.29.

He finished nearly five minutes ahead of former two-time winner Daniel Romanchuk of the United States. Hug, who collected $35,000 for finishing first, becomes the first person to win all six Abbott World Marathon Majors in one year (Berlin, New York City, London, Chicago, Boston, Tokyo).

In the women’s wheelchair event, Catherine Debrunner raced out to a 35-second lead after five miles and coasted to victory, winning in 1:39.32 over Manuela Schar (1:47:54) and shattering the event record, set last year by Susannah Scaroni, who finished third this year. The victory came with a $50,000 bonus for Debrunner for her record-breaking performance.

Marcel Hug won the men's wheelchair event for the third year in a row, and Catherine Debrunner broke the women's wheelchair record.

10/27/2023

PBS’ acclaimed documentary series American Masters has launched a new inclusion effort aimed at supporting stories by, for and about disabled communities.

The Visibility, Inclusion and Accessibility Initiative aims to expand American Masters‘ commitment to stories and creatives within the larger disability community, launching with a new series, Renegades, alongside a talent incubator and expanded accessibility features for programming distributed by the series.

Read on to find out more!

PBS’ acclaimed documentary series American Masters has launched a new inclusion effort aimed at supporting stories by, for and about disabled communities. The Visibility, Inclusion and Accessibility Initiative aims to expand American Masters‘ commitment to stories and creatives within the larger...

10/13/2023

We loved hearing this on NPR this week!

Outdoor recreation played a larger role in the lives of many Americans since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, including those with disabilities.

The influx has highlighted the efforts of groups across the country working to ensure all hikers and bikers have access to outdoor spaces regardless of their disabilities.

A small adaptive sports non-profit in West Virginia has added a rugged downhill wheelchair to its fleet of mountain bikes, so even those with severe mobility limitations can experience the speed and thrill of a trail ride.

While Snowshoe Mountain in West Virginia is known for its ski slopes, during mountain biking season, the powder-white runs turn to dirt tracks. And no matter the season, Carol Woody is the woman behind the adaptive programming as the director of Challenged Athletes of West Virginia (CAWV), a nonprofit partner of the resort.

We can't wait to see this expand further!

https://www.npr.org/2023/10/11/1202903735/mapping-wilderness-trails-technology-people-disabilities

People — including those with disabilities — flocked outside during the COVID-19 pandemic. The influx has highlighted efforts to ensure everyone has access to outdoor spaces.

10/10/2023

When we have hope, we discover powers within ourselves we may never have known – the power to make sacrifices, to endure, to heal, and to love. Once we choose hope, everything is possible." – Christopher Reeve

He left us nineteen years ago on this day. What a legacy and better awareness he left us for spinal cord injuries, (SCI).

10/10/2023

It is a beautiful event for a fantastic cause! If you did not have a chance to donate to the event but would like to support this much-needed Organization, in our valley, please give Valley Residential Services, Inc. a call. They can provide you with information on how you can support their mission. (509) 522-0400

10/02/2023

Sold out!!! We recommend calling the Gesa Power House Theatre and asking to be put on the waiting list. We are excited to be a dancer sponsor this year for Valley Residential Services, Inc. Cheer on our dancer Tabitha Pennington by calling Valley Residential and donating in her name. Help give her a leg up in the completion! We can't wait to attend the event on Saturday!

We are officially sold out of tickets at the Gesa Power House Theatre. Stay tuned to this page to learn if any tickets are returned by sponsors to be put up for sale.

09/25/2023

"So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable."- Christopher Reeve

Today he would have been 71. He left behind a wonderful legacy of a foundation that continues to raise money for research in finding a cure and to help others who suffer from spinal cord injuries.

You play the hand you're dealt. I think the game's worthwhile.

09/19/2023

The City of Walla Walla strives to provide equal access to all residents, and has instituted a Berm Reduction Program as a reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities.

The program's goal is to reduce snow berms across driveways of qualified people with disabilities in the city of Walla Walla who have physical challenges that make it difficult for them to clear the berm for access to and from their residence.

To qualify/request this service, a resident must:
• Complete the City’s standard Persons with Disabilities Berm Reduction Request Form;
• Provide a copy of their temporary or permanent State of Washington Department of Licensing, Individual with Disabilities Parking Privilege card; and
• Provide proof the person lives at the property where the service is requested.

The form and materials must be submitted to the City before Oct. 1 each year to allow sufficient time for staff to create a list of qualified service locations.

The request form is available as a downloadable PDF file and as an online submission form on this page, along with additional details about the program: https://www.wallawallawa.gov/snowberms

For more information, please contact the Street Division office at 509-527-4363.

09/15/2023

Do you have a Veteran in your life?

The Blue Mountain Action Council Inc Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) team will be at the Veterans Stand Down this coming Saturday, September 16th. It will be at the VFW Post #992 at 102 N. Colville Street in Walla Walla, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Come and visit their booth and talk to them about resources for Veterans. They are looking forward seeing you.

Our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) team will be at the Veterans Stand Down this coming Saturday, September 16. It will be at the VFW Post #992, 102 N. Coleville St. , Walla Wall, from 9 am until 2 pm.

Come and visit us there at our booth and talk to us about resources for Veterans. We are looking forward seeing you.

09/15/2023

With fall wine harvest upon us in Walla Walla, now is the perfect time to plan your autumn retreat! Escape to The FINCH and score up to 20% off your stay, while you enjoy all the beauty (& flavors!) the season brings to our area.

BONUS - They have two very well appointed ADA rooms that will make your stay comfortable if you are in a wheelchair or use a walker.

Learn More 🍂 : https://finchwallawalla.com/specials.php

With fall wine harvest upon us in Walla Walla, now is the perfect time to plan your autumn retreat! Escape to The FINCH and score up to 20% off your stay, while you enjoy all the beauty (& flavors!) the season brings to our area.

Learn More 🍂 : https://finchwallawalla.com/specials.php

09/14/2023

Spinal cord Injury Awareness Month. Give this exercise a try!

09/08/2023

Love this!

SOAR volunteered at BMAC Food Distribution on August 24 and made a difference in our community.

SOAR volunteered at BMAC Food Distribution on August 24 and made a difference in our community. Read about it in our blog at wwvdn.org (https://www.wwvdn.org/blog-posts-from-wwvdn/soar-volunteers-at-bmac-food-distribution.html)

09/01/2023

The Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days is well underway! Have you made plans to attend for any of the fun this weekend?

08/30/2023

Introducing our next featured dance competitor, Tabitha Pennington. Tabitha wears multiple hats as a stylist and the owner of Stella Hair Company in College Place. However, you might also recognize her as the dynamic and highly skilled lead singer of "Shanks Pony," a band known for its high-energy performances. Tabitha's connection with Walla Walla goes back to her childhood, having lived there on and off since the age of 10. Her appreciation for the valley's diverse culinary scene is evident, as she enjoys dining out at its numerous fine restaurants. Singing and dancing hold a special place in her heart, with a wide range of dance styles like hip hop and ballet capturing her interest. While she leans towards hip hop, Tabitha humorously dubs her current dance style as "Random." Among her dance inspirations, the legendary Tina Turner stands out as her idol.

Anticipate a spectacular performance from Tabitha on stage, but she welcomes your support. Any donations made to Valley Residential Services under her name will contribute to her overall score. To donate, you can follow the link provided below or scan the QR code featured alongside her captivating photograph.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to her sponsor, Accessible Walla Walla, for their generous support.

Join and be part of her journey!

http://weblink.donorperfect.com/teamtabitha

Introducing our next featured dance competitor, Tabitha Pennington. Tabitha wears multiple hats as a stylist and the owner of Stellar Hair Co. in College Place. However, you might also recognize her as the dynamic and highly skilled lead singer of "Shanks Pony," a band known for its high-energy performances. Tabitha's connection with Walla Walla goes back to her childhood, having lived there on and off since the age of 10. Her appreciation for the valley's diverse culinary scene is evident, as she enjoys dining out at its numerous fine restaurants. Singing and dancing hold a special place in her heart, with a wide range of dance styles like hip hop and ballet capturing her interest. While she leans towards hip hop, Tabitha humorously dubs her current dance style as "Random." Among her dance inspirations, the legendary Tina Turner stands out as her idol.

Anticipate a spectacular performance from Tabitha on stage, but she welcomes your support. Any donations made to Valley Residential Services under her name will contribute to her overall score. To donate, you can follow the link provided below or scan the QR code featured alongside her captivating photograph.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to her sponsor, Accessible Walla Walla, for their generous support.

Join and be part of her journey!

http://weblink.donorperfect.com/teamtabitha

08/28/2023

What do you see in this picture?

08/28/2023

We are excited to help welcome the group visiting Walla Walla from our sister city Sasayama, Japan. They arrived this weekend and are looking forward to taking in the valley. Look for them in the Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days Parade on Saturday!

Cc: Walla Walla Sister City Committee Accessible Walla Walla Tours Visit Walla Walla Walla Walla Life Downtown Walla Walla

08/26/2023

We love this! Thank you for all you do in the community Blue Mountain Action Council Inc.

The BMAC Housing Department just installed a $4,000 wheel chair ramp at Lincoln house for disabled residents to use. The wheel chair ramp was donated back to BMAC when it was not needed anymore and helps now residents who need it.

Thanks to the housing team that does such important work in our community.

08/22/2023

Oh hey, Walla Walla! We are excited to be a part of the upcoming Dancing with the W2 Stars in support of Valley Residential Services, Inc. A generous benefactor donated the sponsorship to Accessible Walla Walla and we cannot wait to see Tabitha Pennington bring the heat on the stage at the Gesa Power House Theatre. You may know Tabitha from being the lead singer of popular local band SHANKS PONY and her work making hair look amazing at the Stellar Hair Co. Part of the final scoring involves donations in support of our local dancers, and we would love for you to lend your support behind Team Tabitha/Accessible Walla Walla! All donations are tax deductible. Simply scan the QR code with your smart phones camera to get to the donation portal.

Cheers! And thank you for your consideration in supporting this valued community organization working to improve the quality of life for many.

08/18/2023

Did you know that Whitman Mission National Historic Site has accessible options for those with sight and hearing disabilities available to guests. To celebrate, here are five fun facts about braille:

1. Braille is a tactile code, not a language. Braille can be made into different languages and different forms for subjects like math and music.

2. Braille began as a military code called "night writing" before it was streamlined into a more usable form by 15-year-old Louis Braille.

3. Some fast braille readers can read up to 400 words per minute whereas a fast sighted reader can typically read only 300.

4. People who are visually impaired or blind can receive free books, textbooks, and magazines in braille from the National Library Service.

5. Whitman Mission National Historic Site offers a braille version of our park brochure!

If you are a braille reader who wants to know more about our site, please contact or visit us and we can provide you with a copy of our braille brochure. Additionally, we offer an audio-described version of our brochure on the Unidescription app.

Pic: Whitman Mission National Historic Site

08/18/2023

Amazing!

Tokyo Paralympian Kerrie Leonard was also in action today at the European Para Championships 🎯

She finished 9th overall in her category (CWO)

Kerrie will compete in a Paris 2024 quota tournament on Friday with two slots up for grabs in her category.

| | | Kerrie Leonard Sport Ireland European Para Championships Archery Ireland

08/12/2023

Looking for a delightful ADA room on your next visit to Walla Walla? We love the options at The FINCH. The property is conveniently located in Downtown Walla Walla and offers comfortable, modern accommodations for guests. Check out their website for more information!

The FINCH is a downtown Walla Walla hotel offering modern, one-of-a-kind accommodations making it the perfect basecamp for your Walla Walla experience. View our accessibility statement.

08/12/2023

How cool is this?! Thanks to the Walla Walla Public Library and Fort Walla Walla Museum for making this happen for our community members.

🎟️ The Walla Walla Public Library now has Fort Walla Walla Museum Passes for loan! The Fort Walla Walla Museum pass is available for one week at a time and cover admission for an individual or one family. Three passes are currently available for checkout. 🎟️

You can place this item on hold for checkout at:
https://catalog.wallawalla.bywatersolutions.com/.../opac...

🎟️ The Walla Walla Public Library now has Fort Walla Walla Museum Passes for loan! The Fort Walla Walla Museum pass is available for one week at a time and cover admission for an individual or one family. Three passes are currently available for checkout. 🎟️

You can place this item on hold for checkout at: https://catalog.wallawalla.bywatersolutions.com/cgi-bin/koha/opac-detail.pl?biblionumber=220702

Fort Walla Walla Museum

08/10/2023

Birders who are blind can now use Birdsong to navigate the world. We love this! 🕊🦆🦉

For some blind birders, avian soundscapes are a way to map the world around them. Increasing noise pollution is imperiling that navigation.

08/08/2023

Starting this fall, Heritage Square Park in Downtown Walla Walla will be reconstructed as a public space that is inviting and accessible by all. The rebuilt park will feature a stage with a canopy, new ADA accessible restrooms, hardscape, lawn, seating, trees, and planting areas. It will be a site for performing arts, recreation programs, relaxation, public gatherings, and other events.

The need for a redesigned space in Heritage Square was identified in the 2004 Downtown Master Plan and the 2018 City of Walla Walla Government Comprehensive Plan. Due in large part to its design, the park is currently underutilized. It lacks clear sight lines, making some feel uneasy about using the space, and it doesn’t have a prominent entrance, so passersby might not realize the park is there.

An extensive public input process in 2018 gathered feedback on what community members wanted to see in the park. Residents, business and property owners, and other local stakeholders supported an accessible space, a performance stage, a sidewalk element that denotes the park’s entrance, a visual connection to Mill Creek, retention of "Windows on the Past" art exhibit, improved lighting, and more. Community members gave the final design extremely positive feedback, and Council approved the plans in December 2018.

By next summer, the reconstructed park should be finished and open to the public. The stage will host the Summer Music Series, Parks and Recreation will use the park for its programming for youths and families, and community groups will host gatherings and events there. The space will be welcoming, attractive and secure, with plenty of places to sit or dance to live music, a reopened view of Mill Creek, and restrooms that are more conspicuous and open year-round.

More information on this project is available here: https://www.wallawallawa.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2624/15?backlist=%2f

Starting this fall, Heritage Square Park will be reconstructed as a public space that is inviting and accessible by all. The rebuilt park will feature a stage with a canopy, new ADA accessible restrooms, hardscape, lawn, seating, trees, and planting areas. It will be a site for performing arts, recreation programs, relaxation, public gatherings, and other events.

The need for a redesigned space in Heritage Square was identified in the 2004 Downtown Master Plan and the 2018 City Comprehensive Plan. Due in large part to its design, the park is currently underutilized. It lacks clear sight lines, making some feel uneasy about using the space, and it doesn’t have a prominent entrance, so passersby might not realize the park is there.

An extensive public input process in 2018 gathered feedback on what community members wanted to see in the park. Residents, business and property owners, and other local stakeholders supported an accessible space, a performance stage, a sidewalk element that denotes the park’s entrance, a visual connection to Mill Creek, retention of "Windows on the Past" art exhibit, improved lighting, and more. Community members gave the final design extremely positive feedback, and Council approved the plans in December 2018.

By next summer, the reconstructed park should be finished and open to the public. The stage will host the Summer Music Series, Parks and Recreation will use the park for its programming for youths and families, and community groups will host gatherings and events there. The space will be welcoming, attractive and secure, with plenty of places to sit or dance to live music, a reopened view of Mill Creek, and restrooms that are more conspicuous and open year-round.

More information on this project is available here: https://www.wallawallawa.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2624/15?backlist=%2f