Self Advocacy Association of NYS: Weekly Events & Community Updates
Please share with self-advocates.
THIS WEEK’S EVENTS
Calendar and Clock — see the schedule of weekly and special events below.
REGULAR WEEKLY MEETINGS
Click the blue box for a list of meetings with their links that happen every week. This list does not change from week to week unless otherwise noted. Meetings are open to everyone!
Women’s Affinity Group
Time: Feb 3, 2026, 1:00 PM Eastern (US & Canada)
Meeting ID: 518 441 7998
This Week’s Staying Connected Call
Topic: Advocating for Safe Sidewalks / Pedestrian Accessibility
Speaker: Jonathan Greenwald, DRNY
Meeting ID: 5183821454
When: Wednesdays, 1:00 PM–2:45 PM
Harry Potter Reading Group
We will continue to read Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and share what brings us joy. We will be meeting 3:00–4:00 PM.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83386639115?pwd=U3PRVXF5RFH1K0MZQU5LEC9FAE5SZZ09
Meeting ID: 833 8663 9115 | Call-in #: 1-929-205-6099
Transportation Advocacy Support Group
When: Saturday, February 7 — 2:00–3:00 PM (Monthly on the first Saturday)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86976353785
DEC SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON DRAFT POLICY TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO OUTDOOR RECREATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has released a draft Commissioner Policy to improve access to the outdoors for people with mobility disabilities. The proposed policy guides the use of Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMDs) on DEC-managed lands by consolidating and streamlining existing policies and establishing a framework to identify opportunities for use of OPDMDs.
OPDMDs include battery- or fuel-powered devices used for locomotion other than wheelchairs (for example, golf carts, scooters, e-bikes, and other personal mobility devices). The draft policy would replace Commissioner Policy 3 (Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities) and aims to expand and clarify permitted opportunities while identifying areas where certain devices would not be allowed due to safety or resource concerns.
Written comments will be accepted through March 9, 2026. DEC will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 6:00 PM for those interested in learning more.
- Visit DEC’s website for the draft policy and public meeting registration
- Information about DEC’s accessible recreation destinations
- Interactive online map of accessible features on DEC lands
DD AWARENESS MONTH ART GALLERY — CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (CDD) invites your artwork for the third annual digital art gallery. This year’s theme is “Celebrating our Achievements.” Send artwork that demonstrates accomplishments and goals — anything that shows what’s possible.
Examples of art forms include:
- Drawings
- Paintings
- Poetry
- Sculptures (send a photo)
- Crafts (send a photo)
Please send a photo of the artwork only (do not include a photo of yourself with the art).
Submit your artwork via email to [email protected] by February 16.
Need inspiration? Check out past galleries:
COMMUNITY GROUPS & ACTIVITIES
Pro Wrestling Fanatics Group
There will be a Pro Wrestling Fanatics group meeting this Saturday at 4:00 PM, and the group will continue to meet weekly.
FREE VIRTUAL EVENTS
SBRN offers virtual groups for individuals with spina bifida and other disabilities to learn, share stories, and build community from home. Find out about events and activities by clicking here.
Check out Adapt Center virtual classes such as yoga, dance, and meditation: Adapt Center Virtual Classes.
All Bodies Dance Project — Contemporary Improv
Join the All Bodies Dance Project on Fridays at 12:00 PM PST / 3:00 PM EST to connect with movement, self-discovery, and creativity from home.
SELF ADVOCACY GROUPS
In addition to weekly events open to everyone, there are regional self-advocacy groups that meet regularly (some in person, some online). To find groups near you or to contact your regional coordinator, click here.
Self Advocacy Association of NYS
500 Balltown Road, Bldg 12, Schenectady, New York 12304
Phone: 518-382-1454
Email: [email protected]
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