August 26, 2026 Mark Seifarth

Today 4PM ET: Register Learn More & Apply for AAPD’s 2027 Paul G. Hearne Emerging Leader Award recognizing outstanding emerging leaders with disabilities

Learn More Register for Webinar and Apply Here: https://www.aapd.com/paul-g-hearne-emerging-leaders-award/?utm_source=Main+AAPD+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=79dc319473-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2026_08_06_01_06_COPY_16&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7d4fdb3943-f9e320fdc9-49903109

Webinar Is Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 4 PM ET
Editor’s Note and Correction: Our August 5th email announcing the application opening contained a typo that said the webinar is “Wednesday, August 24.” The correct date for the webinar is this Wednesday, August 26. Our sincere apologies for any confusion caused by this error.

Applications for AAPD’s 2027 Paul G. Hearne Emerging Leader Award are now open! The Hearne Award recognizes outstanding emerging leaders with disabilities who exemplify leadership, advocacy, and dedication to the broader disability community. The award is named to honor the legacy and leadership of our co-founder and AAPD’s first President, Paul G. Hearne, who had a bold idea to create AAPD.

AAPD is hosting a Zoom webinar on Wednesday, August 24th, at 4 PM ET/1 PM PT for interested applicants to learn about the program and application process, and to get questions answered. ASL and CART will be provided. Register here for the webinar. If you have any additional access needs, please email programs@aapd.com.Register For the WebinarNot sure whether you should apply? Here’s more information about applying for the 2027 Paul G. Hearne Emerging Leader Award.

What does it mean to receive the award?
Two (2) recipients will receive an award of $25,000: $10,000 in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the disability community and $15,000 to further a new or existing project or initiative that increases the opportunities for people with disabilities. Awardees are recognized in the community for their work, their project is promoted by AAPD, and they also receive support from AAPD to help achieve their goals for their project or initiative.

Who should apply?
We encourage applicants who self-identify as an emerging leader with a disability to apply, regardless of U.S. citizenship, incarceration status, or age. A recipient can be an individual or a pair (2-person group). We especially encourage people who have experienced intersecting forms of discrimination and from historically excluded backgrounds, rural areas, and U.S. territories to apply.

Do emerging leaders have to be young in age? Or students?
An applicant’s status as an emerging leader is not necessarily tied to age, education status, employment, or specific experience or involvement in the disability community. The full list of applicant requirements can be found here.

When and how is the award given?
The recipients of the 2027 AAPD Paul G. Hearne Emerging Leader Awards will be honored among national disability leaders at the virtual 2027 AAPD National Community Event in the Spring. The event is usually held in April.

I can’t make the webinar! What other resources does AAPD have for applicants?
If you can’t make the webinar, it will be recorded and uploaded to the AAPD website, along with a transcript. In addition to the webinar, AAPD has a guide for applicants that includes a sample application, financial and disbursement information, resources for creating your application budget, and more.

Where can I learn more about the impact of the Hearne Award?
Paul G. Hearne Emerging Leader Award recipients have used their award funds to create organizations, publications, books, blogs, and so much more that have shaped, resourced, and supported disabled people. Many community leaders got their start or increased the recognition of their work at the national level as a result of the award. We strongly encourage you to learn about our incredible 2026 awardees here, and to check out these written and video profiles of PGH award winners over the years, compiled to celebrate 25 years of the award.Learn More and Apply Here***The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is a convener, connector, and catalyst for change, increasing the political and economic power of people with disabilities. As a national cross-disability rights organization, AAPD advocates for full civil rights for the over 70 million Americans with disabilities by promoting equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation. To learn more, visit the AAPD website: www.aapd.com.

August 12, 2026 Mark Seifarth

08/20, 09/17, 10/15 Zoom from CEDC Access for All: Building Digital and Document Accessibility Skills – Social Media Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Online Content

Community Education and Dissemination Council (CEDC)

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ET Location: Zoom Format: Virtual

Thursday, August 20, 2026, 12:00 PM ET

Thursday, September 17, 2026, 12:00 PM ET

Thursday, October 15, 2026, 12:00 PM ET

All are welcome to join the CEDC on Thursday, August 20, 2026 as we continue our Access for All: Building Digital and Document Accessibility Skills series with our 3rd three-part series on Social Media Accessibility: Creating Inclusive Online Content.

Please note: CEDC quarterly meeting starts at 12:00 PM ET, Social Media Accessibility training begins around 12:30 PM ET. (feel free to join for the whole meeting or only at 12:30 PM ET for the training)

Description:
During our August CEDC Quarterly Meeting, there will be a 20-minute training on presentation accessibility. This training will cover best practices in building and sharing accessible social media communications. This is the first session of a three-part series discussing social media accessibility.

CEDC Quarterly: Introduction to Social Media Accessibility
Thursday, August 20, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
Participants will learn about social media accessibility. Covering best practices in accessible social media posts and communications.
Register Now for August 20

CEDC Coffee Chat: Building Skills
Thursday, September 17, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
Participants will engage in a hands-on workshop on how to build accessible social media. Register Now for September 15

CEDC Coffee Chat: Reflection
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
Participants will reflect on both the challenges they face and the successes they experience when creating accessible social media.
Register Now for October 15

Please Note:

We will be using automated captioning through Zoom for these meetings. If you require additional accommodations please let us know by emailing accommodations@aucd.org.
This webinar will be held on the Zoom Platform. You can test your connection with Zoom before joining the meeting here http://zoom.us/test.
This webinar will be recorded and posted on this CEDC Event Page afterwards

Past Events and Resources

CEDC Coffe Chat: Access for All: Building Digital and Document Accessibility Reflection:
View Coffee Chat Reflections Recording

CEDC Coffee Chat: Access for All: Building Digital and Document Accessibility: Building Skills: Participants engaged in a hands-on workshop on how to build an accessible PowerPoint.
View Coffee Chat Building Skills Recording

CEDC Quarterly: Access for All: Building Digital and Document Accessibility: Introduction to Presentation Accessibility: Participants learned about presentation accessibility. Covering best practices in accessible presentations and how to use a PowerPoint well when thinking about accessibility.
View Intro to Presentation Accessibility Recording

CEDC Resources: Access for All: Building Digital and Document Accessibility Skills” Resources
View CEDC Resources on the Padlet Board

April 22, 2026April 22, 2026 Mark Seifarth

Ohio Gov DeWine & Lt Gov Tressel Recognize Assistive Technology Awareness Day April 22nd

Governor Mike DeWine & Lt. Governor Jim Tressel today recognized April 22, 2026, as National Assistive Technology (AT) Awareness Day.

The day honors people with disabilities who require AT to access their education, workplace, community, recreational activities, and to live independently. The day also recognizes the innovation of researchers, educators, and the dedication of AT specialists and program providers who operate AT programs so that millions of individuals can acquire and use low-cost and often no-cost AT.

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program or product systems that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities.

Assistive Technology of Ohio (AT Ohio) works with people of all ages and abilities, providing assessments, equipment demos, short-term device loans, used refurbished computer equipment, training and referrals to funding sources. AT Ohio, part of the College of Engineering at The Ohio State University, is Ohio’s official Assistive Technology Act program. AT Ohio is funded under the Administration for Community Living (ACL).

“Every year, new technology is created to help Ohioans with disabilities achieve in school, succeed in the workplace, and live more independent and inter-connected lives,” said Dr. William Darling, Director of Assistive Technology of Ohio. “Technology gives people with disabilities the chance to compete in the classroom, succeed in the world of work, and live more independent and inter-connected lives.”

“l would like to thank Governor DeWine and Lt. Governor Tressel for recognizing National Assistive Technology Day and for their on-going commitment and support of technology to help improve the lives of Ohioans with disabilities,” added Dr. Darling.

For more information, contact Eric Rathburn at 614-688-3222 or email at rathburn.17@osu.edu. More information can also be found on National AT Awareness Day on the Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP) website at https:([ataporg.org/national-at-awareness-day/. For more information about AT Ohio, go to http://www.atohio.org.

September 16, 2025 Mark Seifarth

AT Consideration Series: Beyond the Checkbox – 2025-2026 Sept 17, Oct 8, Dec 10, Jan 14, Feb 18, Mar 11 – Wed 3:30pm-4:15pm ET – FREE virtual professional development series – strategies/tools to support AT consideration process for all students with disabilities

AT Consideration Series: Beyond the Checkbox

September 2025 – March 2026

REGISTER BELOW SEPARATELY FOR EACH SESSION

The Assistive Technology and Accessible Educational Materials Center (AT&AEM Center) at Ohio Center for Autism & Low Incidence (OCALI) is pleased to host AT Consideration Series: Beyond the Checkbox, a FREE virtual professional development series, which takes a deep dive into the AT consideration process framed around the six steps of the AT Decision-Making Tool (ATDMT). AT Consideration is required by law to be completed at each IEP meeting. Teams must select ‘yes’ or ‘no’ on the IEP to specify whether the student requires AT devices and/or services. Thoughtful AT consideration involves examining a range of factors that guide the team toward informed decision-making. This series will guide participants through the AT Consideration process, including the six steps of the ATDMT, to build confidence in decision-making and clarify the next steps. Whether or not you’re currently using the tool, each session offers valuable insights into the core components of AT consideration, with opportunities to engage with hosts and fellow participants, plus a dedicated Q&A segment at the end of each session.

Who should attend?

Whether you’re looking to get started with the ATDMT or want to explore what drives thoughtful, evidence-based team decisions for AT consideration, this PD opportunity is designed for you! Suggested attendees include, but not limited to: intervention specialists, general educators, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, administrators, paraprofessionals, family members, etc. Designed to meet the needs of IEP Teams from Preschool through 12th grade.

Key Concepts and Take-aways

Participants will gain actionable strategies and tools to support the AT consideration process for all students with disabilities.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the six steps of the ATDMT, including universal tools, AT assessment, accessible formats, and IEP documentation, to support access to education for all students with disabilities.

Earn Credit!

0.5 Professional Development Contact Hour available for each session attended—must complete session evaluation to access certificate.

Presented by the AT&AEM Center staff at OCALI

Below are the 6 different sessions offered. Participants are not required to attend all sessions but are encouraged to attend as many sessions necessary to meet their learning needs. Each session will take a deep dive into the AT consideration process as well as the steps of the AT Decision-Making Tool. Participants who are interested in learning more about the tool and the process of AT consideration are encouraged to attend. Even if not utilizing the tool, the sessions will provide valuable information into each content area of the AT consideration process. Interactive Q&A time will be set aside at the end of every session.

All sessions are on Wednesdays from 3:30pm-4:15pm.

September 17, 2025 – Getting Started with AT Consideration: Identifying the task REGISTER: https://ocali-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/wM5CP9agTu2clEXUo1jirA#/registration

October 8, 2025 – Technology Everywhere: When Universal Tools become AT REGISTER: https://ocali-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/7YA2FrYDSsSxh_KTwTDG4Q#/registration

December 10, 2025 – Deep Dive: AT Assessment Essentials REGISTER: https://ocali-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ym-4B-cVROWeuAAUZ5h6aQ#/registration

January 14, 2026 – Unpacking Accessible Educational Materials REGISTER: https://ocali-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/zZTI0xciSp-3yZNRszIXEw#/registration

February 18, 2026 – Deep Dive: Identifying Accessible Formats REGISTER: https://ocali-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/15qhj6PIQFiCgyZJdOpi_g#/registration

March 11, 2026 – Making it Count: Documenting in the IEP REGISTER: https://ocali-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/1-a_ejt1To6pp3CgRh00Lw#/registration

Registration

Participants need to sign up for each session they wish to attend. Reminder emails with join links will be sent the Friday before each session. Sessions will be recorded and posted at a later date on AT&AEM website. Registration for a session does not provide the participant with a recording of the session. Q&A at the end of the session will not be recorded.

Contact AT&AEM Center with any questions.

Phone: 614.410.1042
Email: ataem_info@ocali.org

August 12, 2025 Mark Seifarth

08/19 Noon ET Webinar – Your Rights Under the ADA – Disability Rights Ohio Summer Training Series

Summer Education and Employment Training Series – Disability Rights Ohio DRO

August 19th – Your Rights under the ADA

*If you need help registering or would like to make note of accommodations, please email us at communications@disabilityrightsohio.org*

Training sessions are meant to help encourage learning and foster community for our students with disabilities in Ohio and the loved ones that care for them while connecting them with important information and resources as we move into the new school year and beyond.

August 19 – Your Rights under the ADA

August 26 – What is CAP? Client Assistance Program

September 2 – Dispute Resolution in Special Education

Signing up once will put you zoom system for all the training sessions, so you are free to join any of the trainings that meet your needs and interests. Even if you don’t have a child in school or transitioning to work, these trainings are a valuable foundation for any Ohioan who cares about people with disabilities.

*If you need help registering or would like to make note of accommodations, please email us at communications@disabilityrightsohio.org*

July 30, 2025 Mark Seifarth

Brief Thoughts on the Americans with Disabilities Act 35 Years: Onward and Why

Mark Seifarth

As July 2025 Disability Pride Month and the 35th Anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act draw to a close, I offer my brief thoughts and reflections as we go forward:

Brief Thoughts on the Americans with Disabilities Act 35 Years: Onward and Why

Mark Seifarth

On July 26, 1990, I was on the White House lawn with 3000 of my closest friends watching George H.W. Bush sign the Americans with Disabilities Act.

President H.W.Bush and his administration demonstrated bipartisanship in working with many legislators on both sides of the aisle in Congress in bringing the ADA to his desk to be signed into law. Many legislators, elected and appointed officials, and people with disabilities & advocates were instrumental in the passage of the ADA and I pay the utmost respect to all of them, but they are far too numerous to list. It was unifying and bipartisan across the political and disability spectrum. I submit, we must work to regain that bipartisanship in federal, state and local government.

During the July 2025 35th ADA anniversary, I have been posting many opportunities to learn about and participate in events online to grow in your knowledge of the ADA on the Ohio Disability Blog, Twitter X, and Linked In. One example providing a great deal of education and information is the Film and Panel Discussion on “Change, Not Charity: The Americans with Disabilities Act.” Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), and the American Association of People with Disabilities hosted the event in the Capitol Visitors Center in Washington, DC. The panel discussion was moderated by Judy Woodruff and featured guest speakers Former Congressmen Tony Coelho and Steve Bartlett.

Here is a YouTube link to the two-hour film and bipartisan panel discussion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqU7EjWZkKA (If there are any difficulties with the link, please search –- discussion and screening of Change, Not Charity: The Americans with Disabilities Act –- and the search should yield a link to the film on PBS and a YouTube link to the film and panel discussion above.)

My reasons for these brief thoughts on the ADA 35th Anniversary are twofold.

First, we must learn and remember our history. As a person with a lifelong physical disability born 33 years before the ADA became law, I am now closing in on 70 years old. So, these anniversaries give us the opportunity to learn and grow from people who worked on the passage, and how that long advocacy journey resulted in the ADA. Please continue to learn. We also have entire new generations of people with disabilities and advocates who continue to push for equal access, equal treatment, and informed choices in their communities for people with disabilities. We must all mentor, educate, and support succeeding generations coming of age since 1990 as they are assuming leadership roles and championing new advocacy efforts and initiatives.

Second, in many ways the current public and policy environment should cause concern, and highlight the need to educate, inform and advocate on services and supports that help people with disabilities work, live, and grow in their own local communities. All people must have real opportunities to learn and make informed decisions about their own lives. In the current policy environment, many federal programs are being cut or combined with other programs under the guise of streamlining and efficiency when hard fought supports to work and live in your community may be diminished or not be available.

One example is cuts to Medicaid and other programs described as cuts to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse. Now these are taxpayers’ dollars. We must be sure they are well spent and result in the legally prescribed outcomes. We must all identify misuse or abuse of tax money and correct these misuses.

But, in some ways we are not being given all the information. Yes, perhaps recent cuts in Medicaid funds and other programs are not directly in programs meant to support people with disabilities. Many of these cuts in programs will be sent to individual states to implement. With much less money available to states to administer these programs, each state must decide where to make cuts to make up for the significant reduction in federal funds. The federal government can say, they didn’t make the cuts, but they may give individual states no choice but to cut work and community programs for people with disabilities. Further, states are being forced to implement additional onerous paperwork and reapplications for services, not annually, but twice a year. This is not only costly to states but may result in loss of services due to the difficulties posed by new compliance mandates for consumers, such as additional unanticipated deadlines.

Finally, we may begin to encounter a decline in respect, understanding, and acceptance of people with disabilities – from changes in housing opportunities, to increased reluctance to any costs to fully incorporate people with disabilities in community and public life.

I believe it is not happening often at this point. But it highlights that now more than ever we must utilize all we have learned in the advocacy for and passage of the ADA of 1990. We must continuously educate, inform, and combat misinformation, or incomplete information on cuts and changes to federal, state, and local programs that support people with disabilities living, working and contributing in their local towns and cities. We must highlight how these programs give everyone the chance to work and live together in society.

Please celebrate the ADA after 35 years of law. It is a great milestone as we continue to learn and grow.

So, let me leave you with this final thought: advocacy is constant. We must continuously work to not return to the days when people with disabilities were not to be seen or were not your neighbor.

When I gave the Commencement Address at Kent State University some years ago, the title of my remarks was “The Finals are Never Over.” For as we celebrate our accomplishments and triumphs, the next challenge or opportunity to use what we have learned is just around the corner. Not to put too fine a point on it, but the fight for equal access for people with disabilities is never over.

July 16, 2025July 16, 2025 Mark Seifarth

July 16th 3PM ET- Lunch & Learn: The ADA 35th Anniversary – What are your rights as a person with a disability?

Register today for the next ADA Lunch and Learn: The ADA 35th Anniversary: What are your rights as a person with a disability?

Lunch & Learn: The ADA 35th Anniversary – What are your rights as a person with a disability?

July 16 2025

3pm – 4pm Eastern Time — 12pm – 1pm Pacific Time

Description

Join the Pacific ADA Center in celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This session will provide an overview of your rights under the ADA and how the law continues to protect people with disabilities in public life. Learn how the ADA impacts everyday experiences in employment, transportation, public services, and beyond.

Presenters

Jan Garrett serves as the Deputy Director of ADA Programs for the Pacific ADA Center at the Public Health Institute (PHI). She has over 25 years of experience providing guidance and training on the ADA and other disability rights laws for businesses, state and local governments, architects, people with disabilities, and others. As a person with a lived experience of disability, Jan has a deeply personal understanding of why disability civil rights are so important.

Savannah Bradley is the Community Outreach and Programs Manager for the Pacific ADA Center, a program within the Center on Disability at the Public Health Institute (PHI). Savannah holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from San Diego State University and a Master of Public Health in Health Promotion and Health Behavior from Oregon State University. She worked in higher education for a decade before joining PHI in 2024 and has dedicated her career to reducing health disparities and advocating for underserved populations.

Registration information

All events »

July 6, 2025July 6, 2025 Mark Seifarth

Register: July 8th Webinar Celebrating the ADA: How Assistive Technology (AT) Supports Daily Life and Work

Celebrating the ADA: How Assistive Technology (AT) Supports Daily Life and Work

Tuesday, July 8th, 2025

3:00 PM EDT – 4:30 PM EDT

Web / Online

Join the Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center (DETAC) for a special webinar in honor of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), with a focus on how technology is shaping the future of accessibility.

The ADA affirms a simple but powerful principle: individuals with disabilities who want to work should be able to work. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, there have been advancements made with tools to increase accessibility. At the same time, there are basic assistive technology (AT) tools that continue to be overlooked as a solution.

The webinar panel from the Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training Center (AT3 Center) will focus on increasing access to and acquisition of AT tools across the lifespan. The panel will share examples of how AT is a critical bridge to helping break down barriers and provide innovative approaches for one to be more independent within the workplace and the broader community.

Registrants can note accommodation needs, such as captioning or sign language, on the registration page. The webinar will be live captioned (with Spanish machine translations) and have ASL interpretation available.

Webinars are recorded and posted with supporting materials on the DETAC website at: aoddisabilityemploymenttacenter.com

The Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center is funded by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to provide evidence-based training and technical assistance to Administration on Disabilities grantees for improving competitive integrated employment and economic outcomes for individuals with disabilities across the nation.

Cost of Event: Free

Registration Requirement: Required

For More Information on This Event:

Sponsoring Organization(s) of Event:

Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center (DETAC)

Audience(s):

Architects/Contractors
Business
Employer
People with Disabilities
State and Local Government

Topic:

ADA Anniversary

June 23, 2025 Mark Seifarth

Webinar June 25th 1-2:30PM ET – Top 5 Things to Know About Aging in America – Alliance For Heath Policy

WEBINAR:
Top 5 Things to Know About Aging in America
Insights for the Health Policy Community
Wednesday, June 25 from 1:00-2:30 p.m. ET

Register for the webinar

What to expect from the webinar:

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the many programs and resources tied to aging, you’re not alone.
This webinar will help you understand the four foundational policies identified by Alliance experts—Medicare, Medicaid, the Social Security Administration (SSA), and the Older Americans Act (OAA)—that have the greatest impact on aging populations.
Our panel of experts will share their go-to resources for understanding and staying up to date on the key aging policies (and why these policies matter). Speakers will also highlight innovations and emerging models from across the country that offer a glimpse into the future of aging policy.

This free, nonpartisan webinar is open to the public and designed to give policymakers, staffers, advocates, and curious minds the tools to engage more meaningfully with the policies shaping aging in America.
This webinar was made possible thanks to 2025 Signature Series Champion Sponsors Elevance Health, GSK, and Kaiser Permanente.

Register for the webinar

Webinar speakers:

Rob Lott (Moderator)Senior Deputy Editor, Health Affairs

Tricia NeumanSenior Vice President, Executive Director for Program on Medicare Policy, KFF

Rebecca VallasCEO, National Academy of Social Insurance

Abby CoxSenior Director of Aging Policy, Advancing States

About the Alliance’s Signature Series:

For the past decade, the Signature Series has been the Alliance for Health Policy’s flagship annual program that brings together cross-sector experts to examine the most challenging issues in health policy. Each year, the Series uncovers key insights and translates them into accessible, nonpartisan education for policymakers and the public.

The 2025 Signature Series on “Aging in America” brings together the best and brightest minds from across the health care and policy landscape to examine how our system measures up to the needs of an aging population, and how we can best educate policymakers to be ready to take on the challenge. Events include a thought leader workshop, webinar, public summit, and congressional briefing.

May 21, 2025May 21, 2025 Mark Seifarth

Center for Disability Empowerment Launches Nationwide Search for New Executive Director – Deadline June 13

The Center for Disability Empowerment Launches Search for New Executive Director

COLUMBUS, OH — The Center for Disability Empowerment (CDE) announced the launch of a nationwide search for its next Executive Director. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting independent living and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities, CDE seeks a dynamic, visionary leader to guide its mission into the future.

Founded on the principles of the Independent Living Movement, CDE has served as a vital resource and advocate for people with disabilities in Central Ohio and beyond. The incoming Executive Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, cultivating partnerships, securing funding, and amplifying the voices of the disability community.

“The CDE Board of Directors is incredibly proud of the impactful work Sue has done with the agency and wish her a joyful and well-deserved retirement,” said Courtney Kimbrough, President of the Board of Directors. “We also look forward with great excitement to the future as we begin the search for our next Executive Director.”

The ideal candidate will bring a strong commitment to disability justice, demonstrated leadership in nonprofit or public service sectors, and experience in organizational management, advocacy, and community engagement. Lived experience with disability is strongly encouraged and valued.

CDE invites qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. The search is being conducted in by the Center for Disability’s Board of Directors. Interested individuals can apply by sending a cover letter and resume to CDE_HR@disabilityempowerment.net.

As CDE embarks on this next chapter, the organization remains steadfast in its mission: to ensure that people with disabilities have the tools, resources, and support to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

About the Center for Disability Empowerment
The Center for Disability Empowerment is a community-based, nonprofit organization operated by and for people with disabilities. CDE is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to lead self-directed lives, advocate for their rights, and participate fully in society.

Job Posting Announcement: Executive Director at the Center for Disability Empowerment (CDE)

Location: Columbus, Ohio

The Center for Disability Empowerment (CDE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Our mission is to advocate for disability rights, promote independence, and create positive change in the lives of individuals and their communities. CDE works to ensure that people with disabilities have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. We are looking for an Executive Director to lead our dynamic team and help us continue our vital work in the community.

The Executive Director position offers a salary of up to $80,000 per year based on experience, with paid holidays annually and a generous amount of sick and vacation time. Lived experience with disability is a required qualification. Interviews will take place in June and July, with the position set to begin on October 1.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Collaboration with the Board of Directors

Ensure that CDE consistently operates in alignment with its mission and vision.
Foster a productive partnership with the Board of Directors to strengthen CDE’s capacity and impact.
Keep the Board fully informed about organizational performance, key issues, and external opportunities.
Collaborate with the Board to annually review and adjust the strategic plan.
Attend all board meetings unless otherwise directed.

2. Operational Management and Team Leadership

Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with vendors, community partners, funders and individual donors.
Oversee negotiations with contractors and external partners.
Manage and empower CDE’s staff, creating an inclusive and respectful workplace that reflects diverse cultural values.
Monitor the quality of all programs and services to ensure they align with CDE’s mission and are achieving high levels of client satisfaction.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations regarding operations and records.

3. Financial Stewardship and Fundraising

Lead the development of the annual budget in collaboration with Board committees.
Build and maintain strong relationships with public and private funders.
Identify and lead the development of new funding proposals and opportunities.
Ensure that the required funding reporting practices and deadlines are being followed.
Ensure that financial controls are in place, and CDE complies with nonprofit accounting and reporting standards.
Oversee the branding and marketing strategies to enhance CDE’s public presence.

4. Advocacy and Public Engagement

Build and maintain relationships with local, state and national disability advocacy organizations.
Strengthen and expand CDE’s reputation as a leader in Independent Living and disability advocacy across targeted regions (Franklin, Delaware, Union and Licking, Ohio counties).
Lead the development and coordination of events, workshops, publications and the agency website.
Serve as the primary spokesperson for CDE, advocating for its mission and values.

Education and Experience

Required: Lived experience with disability.
Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent experience) in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Social Services or related field.
Minimum of 5 years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit management, with proven success in strategic planning, operations, and staff development.
Entrepreneurial mindset with innovative approach to business planning and program development.

Additional Qualifications

Experience working with and reporting to a Board of Directors
Proven leadership in fundraising, including grant writing and donor relations
Excellent public speaking and advocacy skills
A deep understanding of the Independent Living philosophy and Disability Social justice principles

Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to CDE_HR@disabilityempowerment.net by June 13th, 2025.

http://www.disabilityempowerment.net/about-us/execpost

http://www.disabilityempowerment.net