Advocacy

  With so many organizations providing advocacy for the disabled, one might ask, “Why do we need another organization in the mix?” However, considering that 12% of the U.S. population has a disability and the obstacles that are still being faced by these individuals (especially the 6.6% with physical challenges), the need for advocacy is still great. Adaptive Style shall advocate for the disabled through empowering individuals with disabilities, increasing workforce resources and opportunities and addressing awareness in various industries such as retail stores, hospitality, fitness and fashion.

EMPOWERMENT

Through Peer Support groups, counseling, life coaching and training, Adaptive Style shall empower individuals to overcome the challenges associated with physical disabilities. There are emotional challenges associated with physical disabilities that having peer support with help individuals to overcome. Support for family members will also be provided.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Starting with an individual SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) Analysis, we assess the individual on many levels such as education, talents, vocational history, aptitude, current resources and individual aspirations. Where needed we will assist individuals with obtaining training to move into a new field. 

We also will advocate for individuals in their current employment environments to improve awareness of the needs of individuals with physical challenges and provide resources for compliance.

INDUSTRY ADVOCACY 

There are several industries that Adaptive Style plans to target for increased awareness, The fashion industry is one of the first as the industry has such a large impact upon society. In addition to creating clothes for individuals with disabilities, we will advocate for more opportunities in fashion for people with disabilities such as modeling.

From Walmart to Home Depot, retail stores are a part of day to day life. However, shopping in these stores can truly be a challenge if you have a physical disability. Improving fitting rooms, making equipment such as credit card machines adjustable in height and accessible self-check-outs are just a few places to start. 

As Walmart has Greeters, imagine if they offered Greeters that would assist people with physical challenges with their shopping. The cost of the labor will be overwhelmingly offset by increased purchases by the consumer.

Many lodging facilities offer ADA compliant rooms while not taking into consideration the rest of their facilities. Are their fitness centers, pools, restaurants, lobbies etc. not just compliant but open to individuals with disabilities. Check-in desk are built for individuals who are standing. A section of the desk could be made to be a seated desk that is available to individuals with physical challenges as well as others who benefit from being seated during the check-in process.

To accomplish this advocacy, Adaptive Style will employ individuals for certain positions. However, most of the work will be done through a network of volunteers who share the vision of a world without challenges to those with physical disabilities.