Disability Options Network

02/17/2026

Your story has power. 💬

Lawmakers need to hear directly from individuals, families, and advocates about the real impact of disability services. By sharing your experience, you help put a human face on policy decisions and protect access to the supports that help people live independently, find meaningful work, and thrive in their communities.

It only takes a few minutes to make a difference. Submit your story before March 24 and help ensure our voices are heard.

🔗 Share your story here: https://50320896.hs-sites.com/add-your-story-before-march-24

On March 24, disability advocates from across the country will meet with members of Congress in Washington, DC. If you can’t be there in person, you can still participate from home by sharing your story. 

02/12/2026

February Disability Spotlight: Neurological Disabilities

Epilepsy is more common than many people realize, and seizures don’t always look the same.

Awareness, education, and emergency preparedness reduce stigma and increase safety.

Inclusion starts when we understand and support one another.

02/09/2026

February Disability Spotlight: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

Intellectual and developmental disabilities affect how individuals learn, communicate, and navigate the world, but they do not define potential or worth.

With the right support, people with I/DD lead meaningful, connected, and self-directed lives.

At Disability Options Network, we work to ensure people have the tools, voice, and opportunities they deserve.

01/30/2026

Join the PA Partners for a Good Life Network Meeting 🗣️
📅 March 6, 2026
⏰ 9:30–11:00 AM ET
💻 Virtual

This meeting brings together individuals, families, professionals, advocates, and community partners as equal partners to strengthen person- and family-centered practices across Pennsylvania.

Together they will discuss important issues, share ideas, learn from one another, and build trust.

🔗 Register using the link or QR code: bit.ly/45x8fLL

01/23/2026

Today we honor Ed Roberts, the father of the Independent Living Movement, whose courage and advocacy transformed disability rights and reshaped what independence and inclusion look like in our communities.

Ed’s legacy reminds us that accessibility, dignity, and choice are civil rights, and that change begins when we challenge outdated attitudes and remove barriers for all.

01/22/2026

Did you know this?

The disability rights movement grew stronger in the 1960s and 1970s, bringing attention to the need for accessible public spaces for people with disabilities. In 1973, the Rehabilitation Act, especially Section 504, was an important milestone for disability rights in the U.S. Accessible parking did not become a requirement until the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. The ADA required accessible parking spaces in both public and private lots and introduced the international symbol of accessibility, the blue and white wheelchair symbol.



[ID: A graphic with a bright yellow background features abstract shapes and a prominent blue parking sign displaying the International Symbol of Access—a white icon of a person using a wheelchair. Beneath the icon, the sign reads “PARKING ONLY.” At the top of the graphic, a logo includes the words “INDEPENDENCE” and “DISABILITY RIGHTS.” Large bold text reads “DISABILITY RIGHTS FUN FACT.” Below, a caption states: “Accessible parking spaces were introduced in the U.S. in the 1960s and 1970s and became mandatory with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, ensuring equal access for millions.”]

01/22/2026

🍀❄️ Get ready to go green… and brave the cold! ❄️🍀

Special Olympics Lawrence County is hosting their first-ever St. Patrick’s Day Polar Plunge! We’re on the hunt for plungers, sponsors, and donations to make this event a splashin’ success.

🎉 What to expect:

Prizes for the best costumes

Music, games, and fun, even if you’re just cheering from the sidelines!

Ducky Derby with green ducks—looking for a derby sponsor!

💚 All proceeds help provide uniforms, transportation, and competition costs for our athletes, who participate at no cost.

Come join for the fun, support our athletes, and maybe take the plunge if you dare!

01/22/2026

Reminder, DON will and will not accept the following donations listed below!

01/22/2026

Beauty Beyond Limits 2026 ✨

📅 April 25, 2026

Accessible beauty. Inclusive innovation. Community impact.
Join CLASS as they celebrate accessibility, advocacy, and the belief that beauty should be experienced by everyone.

01/16/2026

Our office will be closed on January 19th for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

01/14/2026

Disability Options Network is excited to share a new research study from the University of Pittsburgh Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology.

They are seeking participants for a 12-month study evaluating an innovative under-the-bed weight scale system for wheelchair users called the Fast In-Bed Tracking System (FIT). This system allows individuals to monitor their weight through an app—no transfers needed.

Participants will also take part in the GLB-AI nutrition and exercise program to support weight management and overall health. Compensation is provided.

Interested or know someone who might be?

Check out the details below and see the attached flyer to learn more!

Thank you to Dr. Jonathan Pearlman and his team for continuing to support the health and wellness of individuals with disabilities.

01/09/2026

Help honor the legacy of Paul O’Hanlon.

Do you have a story about working with Paul? Disability Options Network is helping share information about the collection of short video testimonials highlighting Paul’s impact as a civil rights lawyer, activist, and movement leader, especially in disability rights, transit justice, voting access, affordable housing, and related advocacy.

How to share:
• Record your story on your phone
• Include your name, year, and related organizations or campaigns
• Scan the QR code to upload and share your story

Please help spread the word so Paul’s lasting impact can be remembered and honored.

Disability Options Network