Viscardi Alumni

02/22/2026

This year, staying active shouldn’t be limited by accessibility. Ava Lefkowitz explores adaptive fitness programs in New York, including dance, handcycling, and chair-based workouts, showing how inclusive options make staying healthy possible for everyone. Read the full story at https://ablenews.com/resolution-ready-a-guide-to-inclusive-gyms-and-adaptive-fitness-in-the-new-year/

02/20/2026

The MTA Advisory Committee for Transit Accessibility (ACTA) is seeking new members to join the 2026-2027 term! They are looking for persons with disabilities of the community who want to advise the MTA on addressing riders' accessibility needs, identifying barriers across the transit system, recommending community-informed improvements, and supporting the MTA with its mission of Accessibility for All. Being on the ACTA Committee is a voluntary position. If you or if someone you know is interested, click on the link below to apply by March 4.

02/19/2026

Attention Alumni! We’re less than one month away from firing up the court and resuming Alumni Basketball practice! It may still be cold outside, but inside it’s nice and toasty. Join us Thursday, March 5, from 6:00–7:30 PM in the HVS gym as we gather to play wheelchair basketball and create some magic!

All alumni are welcome and you don’t have to play or have prior experience to join in. Please arrive by 5:45 PM and enter through the HVS cafeteria entrance. Everyone is responsible for their own transportation and PCA/nursing support if needed.

Let’s have fun and build the team! Help spread the word to other alumni.
See you on the court!

02/19/2026

Not all disabilities are treated equally—and the consequences are real. Marcus Johnson examines how hierarchy shows up in workplaces, healthcare, and even disability-led organizations, and why dismantling it is essential for justice and survival. Read the full story at https://ablenews.com/there-is-a-disability-hierarchy-and-its-costing-us-our-lives/

02/18/2026

Exciting news! The 18th Annual ReelAbilities Film Festival, the largest festival in the world dedicated to showcasing groundbreaking films by and about people with disabilities returns to The Viscardi Center on April 28!. The week-long festival is renowned for its wide-ranging international film selection, riveting conversations, and performances, presented annually across the New York metropolitan area. The 18th Annual ReelAbilities Film Festival takes place April 23–30 across NYC and online. Additional information and tickets to the full festival will be available on March 26. Watch for more news about the screening time and film details.

02/17/2026

📣 Calling NJ/ NY models with disabilities!!

We're casting models with disabilities for our upcoming Abilities Expo Fashion Show in Edison, New Jersey. All disabilities welcome!

Models must be available from April 30-May 3 and have a love for fashion, beauty, and (of course) self-expression. Models selected will be compensated for their time.

Travel and accommodations are not covered for this opportunity.

We are SO excited for you to hit the runway.

Applications are only open for 24 hours so apply now at: https://bit.ly/46GRLkz

02/16/2026

The meeting of Pamela Laskin and Ellen Paige was one of fate. They met at Lido Beach Townhouses, two years ago, in a water aerobics class. After talking, they both realized they had something in common – people in their lives who have disabilities. So, what do they do? They decided to collaborate ...

02/15/2026

Mattel has recently unveiled a brand-new Autistic Barbie as part of its Fashionistas line, continuing its commitment to disability inclusion and representation.

Company says doll is the latest expansion of its commitment to representation and inclusion

02/14/2026

02/13/2026

It’s freezing outside–and the city’s neglect has left disabled New Yorkers iced in. If you don’t have an all-terrain adaptation built onto your mobility device to ram into mountains of snow, good luck crossing the street or boarding an accessible vehicle. The one-month anniversary in office ...

02/13/2026

Rising costs affect everyone, but people with disabilities face extra challenges
Emily Sauchelli highlights how Elizabeth Pode and Briana Raucci manage extra expenses—from walkers to service dogs to therapies—just to live independently. Read the full story at
https://ablenews.com/what-higher-costs-mean-in-everyday-life/

02/12/2026

Adults with disabilities face higher costs for everyday needs like assistive technology, transportation, and home modifications — often leaving gaps in housing, food, and care. Amir Browne breaks down a new study that uncovers these hidden expenses and what they mean for financial stability. Read the full story at https://ablenews.com/national-study-finds-an-even-tougher-financial-picture-for-the-disabled/