By: NICOLAS FIERRO
Salina Post
Independent Connection announces Salina Arts & Humanities has been awarded for their first annual “Accessibility Champion” designation, for their outstanding collaboration and focus on accessibility in the community.
The “Accessibility Champion" was created to honor a person or organization who is making considerable contributions, and who displays dedication to making North Central Kansas communities accessibility-friendly and welcoming.
"This designation is a testament to Salina Arts & Humanities exceptional leadership and sincerity in their commitment to including everyone at their events," said Angie Saenger, Executive Director of Independent Connection. "They were immediately receptive to our big idea of offering accessibility information and resources at the annual Smoky Hill River Festival. They continue each year being intentional about increasing accessibility at the event."
Anna Pauscher-Morawitz discussed how they earned this award by partnering with Independent Connection after this year's Smoky Hill River Festival.
"Throughout our partnership, we have been working with the staff at Independent Connection to observe physical access at the Smoky Hill River Festival, and they report to us each year on ways we could improve," she sais. "This year, we used them as a resource while reviewing vendor agreements for current ADA language and standards. We also continue to offer the Festival Families First program in partnership with many local social service organizations, providing underwritten admission to individuals who might otherwise be unable to attend the Festival."
She added that the community is the center of everything Salina Arts & Humanities does.
"Community is at the center of everything we do," she said. "As a department of the City of Salina, we are public servants working to respond to community needs to improve the lives of those who live in and spend time in Salina. Each attendee, artist, volunteer, donor and staff member plays a role in making the Festival happen yearly. Without the support of the community, our work would be much different; it’s a symbiotic relationship."
Pauscher-Morawitz and the Salina Arts & Humanities staff plans to find ways on improving the Festival in the future.
"Moving forward, we are working towards making our programs and the Festival more accessible, exploring expanding information about ADA standards to our vendors, and asking our food vendors for more details on allergy-friendly options for attendees to choose from while they are at our event," she stated. "We are also exploring more ways to make our kids' activities more accessible, so everyone can create art at the Festival. Exploring opportunities for more shade in the park is another area we hope to expand in the future."
A highlight of their recent activities include:
- Reviewing their vendor agreement for current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
- Offering a phone number for any event goer to call with accessibility needs.
- Exploring food options that include everyone.
- Continuing to offer the Festival Families First program, providing underwritten admission to individuals who might otherwise be unable to attend the Smoky Hill River Festival.
"We applaud their efforts," added Saenger. "As Salina grows, our partnership will continue to thrive and bring about positive changes."
For more information about Independent Connection, visit: https://indconnectinc.com/
For more information about Salina Arts & Humanities, visit: https://www.salinaarts.com/