October is Disability Awareness Month in Culver City

Published on October 05, 2023

October marks a special month dedicated to raising awareness about disabilities and celebrating inclusivity in Culver City. The City continues to prioritize accessibility and cater to the needs of its residents with disabilities. We spoke with community members to gain insight into the programs and services within the city and how these initiatives are positively impacting their lives.

On Monday mornings, the Momentum Creative program is in full swing in Culver City's Town Plaza. For artist Chris Brown, a published artist working on his next creation, this program means more than just putting pencil to paper. "It's good therapy for me. Keeps me on an even keel," he smiles.

Brown, a Culver City resident for nearly four decades, takes pride in the city's efforts to create a more accessible and maneuverable environment. He reflected on the transformation over the years:. "When I first moved here in April of 1984, this city was completely not accessible. But now at the present time, the City is fully wheelchair accessible. I'm very proud of that."

Culver City boasts an impressive array of accessibility features, including over 2,000 curb cuts, more than 30 audible traffic signals for those with low vision, assistive listening systems for those with hearing impairments, as well as braille signage at various city buildings. The City has also developed an accessible website that prioritizes screen readers.

At the Culver City Senior Center, Linda Newsome attends an American Sign Language class. For Linda and her daughter Laura, who has special needs, the Center has become a haven for personal growth and social connections. "The Center here really helps us as a place to gather and be together in an organized activity,” Linda said. “We've all gotten to know one another. It's really given me a sense of people I can talk to and relate to—and they can relate to what we're going through."

Laura has also found her niche in programs like “Socialites,” which offers dining and live entertainment events on the third Saturday evening every other month. Additionally, she participates in "Dances for the Developmentally Disabled" (DDD), a dancing and socialization event held on the 2nd Friday of every other month. These programs bring her joy and friendship, enabling her to thrive. Laura enthusiastically shares, "Oh, I have so much fun laughing and talking and doing things like that."

Jill Thomsen, Recreation & Community Services Supervisor, emphasizes the positive impact of these programs on the community. "That opportunity for socialization is going out to see their friends for a fun event,” Jill said. “We hear how grateful, a lot of the time it's the parents and caregivers, about how important it is we have those events. And how much the participants look forward to it, because it's a bright spot in their month."

The Disability Advisory Committee, comprising nine dedicated members, plays a vital role in advocating for the disabled community. The Committee advises the City Council on all matters concerning individuals with disabilities, reviews policies and programs, identifies needs, and promotes the integration of people with disabilities into the community.

“We really work hard to connect people with resources for whatever specific need they might have,” Jill said.

Chris and Laura both provided reminders that they are individuals deserving of a seat at the table. "We might have our challenges, but basically, we're just like everybody else. We have different likes and dislikes. We have different personalities and ways of doing things," Chris said.

"They need to keep doing it for us. Because without this, we wouldn't have very much to do,” Laura said.

In addition to these valuable programs, the City of Culver City provides essential transportation services through CityBus and Dial-a-Ride programs, ensuring that residents with disabilities can access the City's resources and services.

As October unfolds, Culver City embraces and supports its residents with disabilities, making strides towards a more inclusive and accessible future. Learn more information about available resources and services.

As October unfolds, Culver City embraces and supports its residents with disabilities, making strides towards a more inclusive and accessible future.