Tag: accessibility

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Step Into Sunshine: Safe and Simple Ways to Stay Active

Individuals with disabilities getting out and getting sunshine and exercise

As the days grow brighter and the temperatures rise, it’s hard not to feel a boost in energy. The fresh green grass, blue skies, and warm sunshine can be just the motivation many of us need to get moving again. For individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges, this time of year can open the door to more comfortable and enjoyable ways to stay active.

Regular movement is important for everyone. Staying active can improve overall health, increase energy levels, and support both physical and mental well-being. The key is to approach activity in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and sustainable.

Before starting any activity, take time to warm up. Gentle stretching, slow movements, or even seated exercises can help increase blood flow to muscles and joints. This helps reduce stiffness and lowers the risk of injury. Starting gradually is especially important—ease into your routine and listen to your body.

There are many ways to stay active, regardless of mobility level. Walking, chair exercises, water therapy, light resistance training, or adaptive sports are all great options. Even small movements—like arm raises, leg lifts, or stretching—can make a meaningful difference. If standing or walking is difficult, seated workouts or exercises using support devices can be just as beneficial.

It’s important to know your limits and pace yourself. Take breaks when needed and stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather. Drinking water helps regulate body temperature and keeps muscles and joints functioning properly.

Consider inviting a friend, family member, or caregiver to join you. Exercising with someone else can make the experience more enjoyable and provide added support and safety. It can also help with motivation and consistency.

Most importantly, focus on what you can do. Progress may look different for everyone, and that’s okay. Celebrate small victories, stay patient with yourself, and enjoy the process.

So step outside if you can, soak up some sunshine, and find ways to move that work for you. A little activity can go a long way toward feeling better and staying healthy.

Always consult with your physician or healthcare provider prior to beginning an exercise program.

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Marshall’s Story

Mays Mission helping a man move into more accessible home

At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, moments like this remind us exactly why we do what we do.

Recently, we had the privilege of walking alongside Marshall during a major life transition—moving from a small hotel room into a larger, fully accessible apartment he can truly call home.

In his previous space, everyday movement was a challenge. Tight quarters made it difficult to navigate his wheelchair, limiting not just his mobility, but his independence. Simple tasks required extra effort, and the lack of accessibility created daily obstacles.

Today, everything is different.

Marshall now has room to move freely and safely. With wider doorways, open space to turn, and an environment designed with accessibility in mind, he’s able to navigate his home with confidence. But the real transformation goes beyond the physical space—it’s about dignity, independence, and the freedom to live life more fully.

And Marshall’s journey didn’t stop at move-in day.

Shortly after getting settled into his new apartment, Marshall reached out to us with another need. Because of a stroke that took mobility on one side of his body, the control on his power wheelchair was no longer in the most functional position for him. He asked if we could help switch the controller to better suit his needs.

We were honored to step in and make that adjustment.

Later that evening, we received a message from Marshall that perfectly captured the impact of what might seem like a small change:

“I rode my powerchair to church last night, and my chair was so much easier to ride since you guys fixed my controller from the right side to the left side. Thanks so much for being my friend.”

Moments like this remind us that what we do isn’t just about equipment or housing—it’s about people. It’s about restoring independence, enabling connection, and helping individuals engage with their community in meaningful ways.

Marshall didn’t just gain a new apartment—he gained greater freedom, confidence, and the ability to participate in life on his own terms.

And that smile on his face says it all.

Thank you to everyone who supports Mays Mission. Your generosity and compassion make stories like Marshall’s possible. Together, we are creating accessible opportunities and brighter futures—one life at a time.

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The ADA 34 Years Later

Mays Mission employees working in our job training program, a historical photo of former President George H. Bush signing the Americans with Disabilities act

July 26, 2024 will mark the 34th anniversary of one of the most dynamic and monumental pieces of legislation for people with disabilities in U.S. history. On this date in 1990, then president George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA would prove to be the most expansive piece of civil rights legislation since the 1964 Civil Rights Act. On that historic day President Bush was joined by Evan Kemp, chairman of the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission; Rev. Harold Wilke; Sandra Parrino, chairman of the National Council on Disability, and Justin Dart, chairman of The President’s Council on Disabilities.


The ADA is made up of five separate sections; Title I covers employment, Title II covers public services, Title III covers public transportation, Title IV covers telecommunications and Title V takes on miscellaneous issues.


While the ADA is the most comprehensive example of legislation for and about the 54 million people with disabilities living in the US, still many do know about or understand the ADA.

Employment issues continue to be problematic. While 32% of Americans with disabilities aged 18 to 64 are working, two-thirds of those unemployed would rather be working.


Mays Mission for the Handicapped was born out of the desire to provide jobs for people with disabilities and continues today. Our “on-the-job” training offers employment opportunities to the disabled in areas of press operations, pre-press, lettershop and bindery, data processing and light assembly.

“We are committed to increasing job opportunities to and for people with disabilities,” said Mission president Sherry Niehaus. “Through on-the-job training, our referral service program and direct mail appeals it is our goal to train the disabled and educate the public that, given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.”


Email us today at info@maysmission.org for free brochures on the ADA and “Making Your Community Accessible” that you can distribute in your community. These brochures were produced by employees with disabilities and they would appreciate your advocacy. Thank you!

photos of Mays Mission employees fro our job training program, and a photo of former President George H. Bush signing the Americans with Disabilities Act
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Programs

Vacation Time

An individual in a wheelchair at the airport

Everyone needs a break from the hustle and bustle of his or her everyday routine. Whether you are working a 40-hour a week job, being a house-mom, volunteering or even retired, we all like to get out and get away from our usual environment and take a vacation. Trips to the big city, camping, theme parks and national and state parks are just a few of the multitude of possibilities for a family vacation.

For people with disabilities, just a smidgen of planning ahead can prevent heartbreak, disappointment and potentially risky situations. Most attractions, such as theme and national parks have made their sites accessible to the disabled thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Yet, due to a variety of issues and unforeseen circumstances, what is available to the able-bodied individual may vary somewhat from what is available to the disabled traveler.

When making hotel/motel reservations, always ask the manager of the facility to describe “handicapped” rooms. What works for the “average” traveler may not work for you. In my travels across the nation, it’s not uncommon to reserve a room only to find out that my wheelchair cannot get through the bathroom door. There’s no such thing as “over planning.”

If flying, try to take very necessary items with you in your carry-on luggage. Especially remember your essential medications. If your regular luggage should happen to get lost or end up on another flight, you will probably be a little more at ease.

 For more information on vacationing with disabilities, call 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for our brochure, “The Disabled Traveler.” Have fun and be safe!

Mays Mission employees from our job training program, pictures of our founder Ewing Mays visiting with wounded veterans "It's ability, not disability, that counts" - A quote from Ewing Mays

Encourage businesses in you area to hire individuals with disabilities! Call us for brochures to pass out to employers in your community and help us spread the word!

Categories
Programs

Vacation Time

An individual in a wheelchair at the airport

Everyone needs a break from the hustle and bustle of his or her everyday routine. Whether you are working a 40-hour a week job, being a house-mom, volunteering or even retired, we all like to get out and get away from our usual environment and take a vacation. Trips to the big city, camping, theme parks and national and state parks are just a few of the multitude of possibilities for a family vacation.

For people with disabilities, just a smidgen of planning ahead can prevent heartbreak, disappointment and potentially risky situations. Most attractions, such as theme and national parks have made their sites accessible to the disabled thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Yet, due to a variety of issues and unforeseen circumstances, what is available to the able-bodied individual may vary somewhat from what is available to the disabled traveler.

When making hotel/motel reservations, always ask the manager of the facility to describe “handicapped” rooms. What works for the “average” traveler may not work for you. In my travels across the nation, it’s not uncommon to reserve a room only to find out that my wheelchair cannot get through the bathroom door. There’s no such thing as “over planning.”

If flying, try to take very necessary items with you in your carry-on luggage. Especially remember your essential medications. If your regular luggage should happen to get lost or end up on another flight, you will probably be a little more at ease.

For more information on vacationing with the disabilities, call 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for our brochure, “The Disabled Traveler.” Have fun and be safe!

Former Mays Mission employees with disabilities engaging in outdoor recreational activities, a camper from our summer camp program
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Programs

Religious freedom for all

A handicapped parking sign that says 'Church Only' on it

Even though the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed and fully implemented in 1992, not all facilities were required to become “accessible.”  The ADA covered “public accommodations” but has no authority over private institutions and organizations. So let’s talk a bit about “places of worship.”

Churches, synagogues, fellowships or whatever a place of worship chooses to be called do not fall under the auspices, rules and guidelines of the ADA.  Because these institutions are private religious organizations, they are not required to become compliant with Title III of the ADA regarding “public accommodations.”

Now, I have been in many places of worship and have yet to find one where I can’t get through the doors.  Yet once inside, many an obstacle has been found.  Probably the most annoying and inconvenient situation is an inaccessible restroom.  Classrooms and the like can easily be made accommodating but once the plumbing is in place it’s difficult to change.

Situations like this can be very discouraging to people with disabilities.  As usual, changes can be made (and should be) but it’s usually a slow process.  Change will not be made until the problem area is brought to the attention of those in authority.

Check out your place of worship for accessibility issues and report your findings to those in authority. Try to get a plan of action to make necessary changes.

In a land that was founded on religious freedom, would it be a shame if we all were not comfortable in our respective places of worship?

If you would like more information or one of our free brochures like “Making Your Community Accessible” or “The Americans With Disabilities Act” to pass out in your community call us toll free at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org. These brochures were produced by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission. Thanks and please share in the comments section.

Focus on ability not disability! featuring photos of Mays Mission employees from our job training program for individuals with disabilities