Taking the mystery out of accessibility

Access Navigators has become a leader in advocacy for people impacted by disabilities by speaking all over the world about the impact of accessibility on people and the economy; mentoring students and volunteers as advocates and data collectors; and continuing to look for new ways to keep people impacted by disabilities connected to their communities. Today, in the midst of a global pandemic, we’re pausing and pondering new ways that our knowledge and reach can bring a positive influence to the re-shaping of our communities. We’ll keep you posted as we develop strategies for growth.

Todd Hanson and Anne Weidman of Access Navigators honored with the 2019 Governor’s Accessibility Award! Presented by the New Hampshire Governor’s Commission on Disability, the award is given to individuals who have distinguished themselves through initiatives that embody the mission of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

To commemorate the 28th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we’ve launched our newest accessibility guide, providing reliable accessibility information for New England microbreweries. Cheers to area brewers embracing the spirit of inclusion and accessibility!

Our online accessibility maps and listings help people with mobility challenges stay engaged in the community. Too often, mobility challenges lead to isolation and disconnection. Going out can be stressful; one unexpected impediment can derail the entire outing, affecting both the person with mobility challenges and their family and friends. Knowing what to expect, and the ability to plan in advance, changes the likelihood of successful outings.

The Access Navigators team and partners take to the streets and assess local restaurants and cultural attractions for physical barriers that impact accessibility. We provide an online form for data collection. To ensure reliable reporting, we use a team of local residents who are wheelchair users as “fact checkers.” They check our listings for accuracy and give us feedback.

Our unique Walk ’n’ Roll map provides a user-tested, barrier-free loop through downtown Portsmouth and helps guide users of wheelchairs and strollers, as well as the general public, travel around the historic downtown and waterfront.

We began this initiative in our hometown: Portsmouth, New Hampshire. We have encouraged businesses to see this as an economic driver by including links to their business website and helping with details that improve their listing. We have since expanded our reach to include communities all around the Seacoast area and we are looking for partners all around the globe to help us bring these benefits to all communities.

You can browse all of our accessibility maps and business listings by selecting your location from the top menu. Contact us to help bring Access to your community!