All About Autism

Every July, Disability Pride Month offers an opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of people with disabilities while recognizing the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive world. The month commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990—a landmark civil rights law that affirmed the rights of individuals with disabilities and helped remove barriers to full participation in society. 

While Disability Pride Month reflects the progress made over the past several decades, it is also a celebration of identity, self-determination, and belonging. At its core is the belief that disability is a natural part of the human experience and that every individual should be empowered to live, learn, work, and engage in the community in ways that reflect their unique goals, interests, and aspirations. 

One of the most meaningful aspects of Disability Pride Month is its focus on the power of choice. The ability to make decisions about one’s own life—from where to work and how to spend free time to which relationships to nurture and opportunities to pursue—is fundamental to independence and dignity. For people with disabilities, genuine inclusion means having access not only to opportunities, but also to the freedom to choose among them. 

Equally important is the role of community. Inclusive communities are built when people are welcomed, valued, and encouraged to contribute their many talents and perspectives. Whether through recreation, employment, education, volunteerism, the arts, or social connections, meaningful engagement creates stronger communities for everyone. When barriers are removed and accessibility is prioritized, opportunities expand—not just for individuals with disabilities, but for families, organizations, and society. 

At Barber National Institute, Disability Pride Month serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering environments where people are empowered to make choices, build connections, and achieve their goals. Every day, we witness the impact of inclusive programs, supportive relationships, and community partnerships that help individuals reach their fullest potential and lead lives of purpose and fulfillment. 

As we celebrate Disability Pride Month this July, let us honor the progress that has been made, recognize the work that remains, and commit ourselves to building a future where choice, accessibility, and inclusion are available to all. By embracing the strengths and contributions of people with disabilities, we create communities that are richer, more vibrant, and more reflective of the diversity that makes us stronger together. 

Disability Pride Month is more than a celebration—it is a recognition that every person deserves the opportunity to choose, contribute, belong, and thrive.

For parents and caregivers of children with autism/special needs, the journey can be filled with both incredible joys and unique challenges. While every family’s experience is different, one thing remains true: no one should have to navigate that journey alone. 

That’s why Barber National Institute’s free Autism/Special Needs Support Group provides a welcoming space where parents and caregivers can connect, share experiences, ask questions, and find encouragement from others who truly understand.   

Held on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at We Rock the Spectrum® Kid’s Gym located at 2167 West 12^th Street, Unit B-2, the group brings together families seeking support, practical resources, and meaningful connections. Snacks and free childcare are provided, making participation easier for busy parents and caregivers.  

The support group is designed to be more than just a meeting—it is a community. Participants can: 

• Connect with other parents and caregivers. 

• Share ideas, challenges, and helpful resources. 

• Learn practical strategies for home, school, and everyday routines. 

• Build a supportive network in a comfortable and understanding environment.  

The group is facilitated by Robin Fox, a Behavioral Health Blended Case Manager, and focuses on topics that matter most to families. Discussions may include navigating school supports, understanding behavioral challenges, accessing medical and insurance resources, coping with a new diagnosis, and discovering available community services. The goal is to help parents gain knowledge, confidence, and meaningful connections with others facing similar experiences.  

At Barber National Institute, we believe that families are stronger when they have access to information, encouragement, and a network of people who care. Parent support groups create opportunities for families to learn from one another, celebrate successes together, and develop strategies for overcoming challenges. Often, simply knowing that someone else has walked a similar path can make all the difference. 

Whether your child was recently diagnosed or you have been navigating autism/special needs-related services for years, the Autism/Special Needs Support Group offers a place to ask questions, exchange ideas, and discover that you are not alone. 

All parents and caregivers are welcome to join us for conversation, connection, and support. We hope you’ll consider taking part in this growing community and experience the power of shared understanding firsthand.  

Reservations are required for childcare. Call (814) 823-5366 or email annetrucilla@barberni.org.  

For questions, contact facilitator Robin Fox at (814) 806-5151.  

For many students, summer is a time to pause. But for the students we serve at the Elizabeth Lee Black School, continued learning is not just beneficial—it’s essential. 

Extended School Year (ESY) provides critical continuity for students whose progress depends on consistency, structure, and ongoing support. At ELBS, ESY is not simply “summer school.” It is a purposeful extension of meaningful instruction, routines, and relationships that help our students thrive every day. 

Continuity of Instruction 

At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, instruction is highly individualized and guided by each student’s unique goals.  

During ESY, this individualized approach continues without interruption. The skills that students have worked hard to develop—whether in communication, academics, behavior, or independence—are reinforced and strengthened. Without this continuity, there is a risk of regression that can make it more difficult for students to regain momentum when the school year resumes. 

ESY allows educators to: 

• Reinforce critical IEP goals 

• Build on progress already made 

• Maintain consistency in teaching strategies and supports 

By continuing instruction through the summer, we help ensure that learning is sustained—not restarted. 

The Power of Structure and Routine 

A hallmark of the Elizabeth Lee Black School is its structured and predictable learning environment, designed to support students with diverse needs.  

For many of our students, routine is more than helpful—it is foundational. Predictability reduces anxiety, supports regulation, and allows students to engage more fully in their learning. 

ESY preserves that structure at a time when routines can easily be disrupted. Familiar schedules, trusted staff, and consistent expectations provide a sense of stability that carries across environments—from school to home and back again. 

This continuity helps students: 

• Stay regulated and engaged 

• Transition more smoothly into the new school year 

• Maintain confidence in their abilities and environment 

Building Social Connections and Belonging 

Learning at ELBS extends far beyond academics. Every day, students practice communication, collaboration, and social interaction in a supportive, inclusive environment. 

ESY ensures these opportunities continue. 

Whether it’s participating in group activities, practicing turn-taking, or simply sharing a moment of joy with a peer, these social experiences are essential to student growth. They foster: 

• Communication skills 

• Peer relationships 

• A sense of belonging and community 

At ELBS, we believe students don’t just attend—they belong.  
ESY strengthens that sense of connection, helping students remain part of a community that understands and supports them.  

Supporting the Whole Child—and the Whole Family 

Extended School Year is also an important support for families. The consistency of programming provides reassurance that their child continues to learn, grow, and be supported in a familiar environment. 

Our partnership with families remains central during ESY, just as it does throughout the school year—because meaningful progress happens when school and home work together. 

More Than a Summer Program 

At its core, ESY is about preserving progress, promoting independence, and creating opportunities for continued growth. 

It reflects what makes the Elizabeth Lee Black School so special: 

• A commitment to individualized, student-centered instruction 

• A structured environment where students feel safe and confident 

• A community built on connection, inclusion, and possibility 

Extended School Year ensures that learning doesn’t pause—and more importantly, that our students continue moving forward. 

This fall, the Barber National Institute is inviting our community to be part of something truly special—an experience designed to celebrate courage, inclusion, and the limitless potential of every individual. 

The Lake Erie Odyssey is a one-of-a-kind adapted obstacle course that will transform Waldameer Park in Erie, Pennsylvania, into an unforgettable journey on September 12, 2026.  

Created specifically for teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Odyssey is more than an event—it’s a powerful opportunity for participants to challenge themselves, explore their abilities, and experience the joy of accomplishment in a supportive, uplifting environment.  

Why the Lake Erie Odyssey Matters 

The Lake Erie Odyssey represents a meaningful evolution of the Barber National Institute’s commitment to inclusion. What began as a highly celebrated adapted component of a larger event grew into something much more—an experience deserving of its own spotlight.  

At its core, the Odyssey is built around choice, empowerment, and accessibility. Participants can: 

• Move through the course at their own pace 

• Choose how they approach each obstacle 

• Receive support from course buddies, volunteers, and the community 

Every element is thoughtfully designed to ensure that individuals of all abilities—including those using wheelchairs or assistive devices—can fully participate.  

This isn’t about competition—it’s about confidence, independence, and celebrating personal victories. 

A Community Experience 

The Lake Erie Odyssey brings together families, friends, volunteers, and supporters from across our region. It fosters an environment where everyone—participants and spectators alike—can celebrate inclusion and shared success. 

From the energy of the crowd along the course to the post-event celebration with music, activities, and community connection, the Odyssey is a day filled with encouragement, excitement, and pride.  

Register for the Journey 

Participation in the Lake Erie Odyssey is free, thanks to generous community support.  

If you or someone you know would like to be part of this incredible experience, you can learn more and register here: 

 
👉 Register for the Lake Erie Odyssey 

Spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged to ensure a place in this unforgettable event. 

The Lake Erie Odyssey is more than an obstacle course—it’s a celebration of strength, resilience, and the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to shine. 

I am honored to serve on the PNC Grow Up Great Advisory Council. At a recent meeting, I learned how PNC Grow Up Great continues to make a meaningful and measurable impact on young children, families, educators, and communities across the country. 

Through strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and a deep commitment to early childhood education, Grow Up Great is not only supporting learning—it is shaping brighter futures. 

A Legacy of Impact in Early Childhood Education 

PNC Grow Up Great has established itself as a credible and trusted leader in early childhood education, with a strong national presence and the ability to create meaningful local change.  

Its strength lies in the ability to bring people together—educators, families, community organizations, and corporate partners—to focus on what matters most: helping children develop the skills they need to thrive.  

From classrooms to community spaces, Grow Up Great initiatives are designed to meet families where they are and create accessible opportunities for early learning. 

Transforming Everyday Spaces into Learning Environments 

One of the standout highlights shared during the meeting was the expansion of Playful Learning Landscapes (PLL)—an innovative approach that transforms everyday gathering spaces into interactive learning hubs.  

These installations are more than just creative designs—they are rooted in research and results: 

• A 24% increase in caregiver-child interaction 

• A 44% increase in STEM and literacy conversations  

By embedding learning into familiar environments like housing communities, Grow Up Great is helping families engage in meaningful, development-focused interactions in their daily lives. 

Supporting Classrooms and Educators at Scale 

The Advisory Council also highlighted the program’s strong investment in educators through initiatives like DonorsChoose funding campaigns. 

• Nearly 1,000 classroom projects were fully funded through a March initiative, totaling close to $600,000  

• A subsequent campaign funded 2,000 teacher-led projects, after overwhelming response and increased investment  

These efforts reflect a critical understanding: when teachers are equipped with resources, students gain access to richer, more engaging learning experiences. 

Engaging Families Through Accessible Resources 

Grow Up Great continues to prioritize family engagement through accessible, high-quality resources such as Sesame Street growth charts and nature explorer journals, helping caregivers support their children’s development at home. 

These tools reinforce key areas like early literacy, math, and exploration—ensuring learning extends beyond the classroom. 

Harnessing the Power of Volunteerism 

Volunteer engagement remains a cornerstone of Grow Up Great’s success. From assembling backpacks and learning kits to participating in reading programs and building outdoor learning tools, employees and community members are actively involved in supporting early learning.  

Notably, enhancements to volunteer grant programs have increased funding tied to volunteer hours, further amplifying the impact organizations can achieve through community service. 

Recognizing the Moment: Challenges and Opportunity 

The meeting also emphasized the broader landscape of early childhood education—and the urgent need for continued leadership. 

Key challenges include: 

• Persistent learning gaps in reading and math 

• Uneven access to quality preschool programs 

• Ongoing impacts from the pandemic 

• The rising cost and affordability challenges of childcare  

At the same time, these challenges present a powerful opportunity. As federal and state support fluctuates, organizations like PNC Grow Up Great are uniquely positioned to lead with innovation, collaboration, and purpose.  

A Lasting Investment in Children and Communities 

PNC Grow Up Great is more than a program—it is a long-term investment in children, families, and the future of our communities. 

By supporting early learning, empowering educators, and engaging families, it helps lay the foundation for lifelong success. And as the Advisory Council meeting made clear, this work is not only impactful—it is essential. 

We at the Barber National Institute also agree that when we invest in our youngest learners, we strengthen families, build resilient communities, and create opportunities that last a lifetime. That is making dreams come true for children and their families.  

For decades, the Barber National Institute’s community pool has been more than just a place to swim—it has been a welcoming hub where individuals of all ages and abilities come together to learn, grow, and connect. Designed with accessibility at its core, the pool continues to play a vital role in fostering inclusion, wellness, and community for families across Erie.  

Building Community Through Connection 

At its heart, the community pool is a space where belonging is felt the moment you enter. Individuals and families gather not only for recreation, but to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and experience the joy of movement in a supportive environment. Whether it’s a child learning to swim for the first time or a family enjoying open swim together, the pool provides meaningful opportunities for connection and growth.  

The pool has long served as a place where participants can feel safe, encouraged, and included—reinforcing Barber National Institute’s broader mission of helping individuals thrive within a caring community.  

Thoughtful Adaptations for All Abilities 

The newly renovated pool and natatorium bring enhanced accessibility and innovative features that ensure every visitor can fully participate. One standout feature is the movable-floor system, which allows the pool depth to be adjusted—rising to deck level or lowering to approximately 4½ feet—so individuals can comfortably enter and enjoy the water at a depth that meets their needs.  

Additional adaptations include: 

• Therapeutic water temperatures (around 90 degrees) to support comfort and relief for those with physical needs  

• Waterproof chairs to assist patrons who use wheelchairs with water entry and shower access  

• A variety of flotation devices and equipment to support skill-building and confidence in the water  

These features ensure that no barrier stands in the way of participation—making the pool a model for inclusive recreation. 

Programs That Promote Growth and Wellness 

The community pool offers a range of classes and programs designed to meet diverse needs and goals. From beginner swimmers to those refining advanced skills, certified instructors provide structured swim lessons that build safety, confidence, and independence.  

In addition to swim instruction, the pool hosts: 

• Aquatic fitness programs that support strength, mobility, and overall wellness  

• Therapeutic and exercise-based programming tailored to individual needs  

• Open swim opportunities that encourage family time, play, and social interaction  

Together, these offerings create a well-rounded aquatic experience that benefits both physical health and emotional well-being. 

Join the Celebration: Community Pool Open House 

The reopening of the pool marks an exciting new chapter, and the community is invited to experience it firsthand at the upcoming open house. 

• Date: Saturday, June 13 

• Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

• Location: Barber National Institute Pool, 100 Barber Place, Erie, PA 16507 

During this event, guests can tour the beautifully renovated facility, learn more about swim lessons and memberships, and meet the team dedicated to creating an inclusive and engaging environment.  

A Lasting Impact 

The Barber National Institute community pool continues to be a place where individuals not only learn to swim, but also build confidence, independence, and connections that extend far beyond the water. With its thoughtful design, inclusive programming, and commitment to accessibility, the pool stands as a powerful example of how spaces can be intentionally created to serve—and uplift—everyone. 

For more information, please visit https://www.barberinstitute.org/community-pool.

As the school year draws to a close at the Elizabeth Lee Black School, we pause to reflect—not only on what has been accomplished, but on what it represents. 

The end of the school year is always meaningful, but this moment feels especially profound. It is a time to celebrate milestones, honor growth, and recognize the many ways our students, families, and staff have come together to create something truly special. Most notably, it is a time to celebrate our graduates—students who have reached an incredible milestone through determination, perseverance, and the support of a community that believes deeply in their potential. 

Graduation is more than a ceremony. It is a powerful symbol of possibility. It reflects not only what our students have achieved, but the dreams they carry forward—and the commitment of everyone who has helped them reach this moment. 

A Year Full of Meaningful Moments 

The 2025–2026 school year has been filled with moments that have inspired, connected, and uplifted our entire community. 

One of the highlights was our incredibly successful Read Across America Week. Classrooms came alive with stories, imagination, and a shared love of reading. It was a joyful reminder that learning is not just about academics—it’s about curiosity, creativity, and connection. 

Our 2nd Annual Art Show was another standout moment—one that beautifully captured the creativity, individuality, and expression of our students. The artwork on display told powerful stories, celebrated unique perspectives, and allowed students to shine in ways that words often cannot. It was not only an event, but an experience that brought together families, staff, and community members in celebration of our students’ voices and talents. 

Delivering on a Promise 

At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, we are guided by a simple but powerful promise—to help make dreams come true for our students and their families. 

This year, our staff brought that promise to life in countless ways. 

Through their compassion, dedication, and unwavering belief in each student, they created an environment where growth is nurtured; challenges are met with support, and every success—big or small—is celebrated. They worked not just to educate, but to empower. Not just to teach, but to inspire. 

The impact of that work can be seen in our classrooms, in our hallways, and most importantly, in our students—who continue to grow in confidence, independence, and joy. 

Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Hope 

As we celebrate the close of this school year, we do so with deep gratitude—for our students, our families, our staff, and our partners who make this work possible every day. 

We also look ahead with hope. 

Because the end of the school year is not just an ending—it is a beginning. A beginning filled with new opportunities, continued growth, and the promise of what is still to come. 

To our graduates: we are incredibly proud of you. Your journey is just beginning, and we look forward to all that you will accomplish. 

To our entire Elizabeth Lee Black School community: thank you for being part of a year defined by connection, achievement, and heart. 

Together, we are not just marking the end of a school year—we are celebrating the realization of dreams, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. 

As May comes to a close, we find ourselves surrounded by signs of growth—longer days, blooming gardens, and a renewed sense of possibility. It’s a season that reminds us that change doesn’t happen all at once, but through steady care, attention, and intention. 

While April holds special recognition as Autism Awareness Month, the values it represents do not end when the calendar turns. In fact, May offers a powerful opportunity to ask an important question: What does awareness look like in action? 

At the Elizabeth Lee Black School and within the Barber National Institute community, that answer is clear—awareness evolves into acceptance, and acceptance leads to meaningful inclusion. 

Beyond a Month 

Awareness plays an important role. It invites us to learn, reflect, and better understand the diverse ways individuals experience the world. Autism, like all aspects of neurodiversity, is not defined by a single characteristic or path—it is a spectrum of perspectives, strengths, and lived experiences.  

But awareness alone is not the destination. Across the disability community, there has been a growing emphasis on moving beyond recognition toward deeper understanding and everyday inclusion.  

Why May Matters 

May is filled with observances that highlight accessibility, communication, mobility, and mental health—each one reinforcing a simple truth: inclusion is not one-size-fits-all.  

It is a reminder that individuals have diverse needs—and that building inclusive environments means being responsive, flexible, and open-minded. 

In a school setting, this may look like: 

• Creating sensory-friendly classrooms 

• Offering multiple ways for students to communicate and engage 

• Designing learning experiences that honor different strengths 

In the broader community, it means ensuring spaces, programs, and opportunities are accessible and welcoming to all. 

Inclusion in Action 

At its heart, inclusion is not a program or a moment—it is a mindset. 

It is found in: 

• A teacher adjusting instruction so every student can participate 

• A peer extending kindness and patience 

• A community designing spaces where everyone belongs 

These actions may seem small, but together, they create meaningful impact. When we shift from simply knowing about autism or disability to actively supporting individuals, we begin to build environments where everyone can thrive. 

Growing Together 

May reminds us that growth is ongoing. Just as flowers continue to bloom beyond the first signs of spring, our commitment to inclusion must continue beyond a single month. 

Awareness opens the door. 
Acceptance builds connection. 
Inclusion creates belonging. 

And belonging is what allows individuals—not just to participate—but to flourish. 

A Continued Commitment 

At Barber National Institute, this work does not begin or end in April. Every day, we are committed to creating environments where individuals are seen for who they are, supported in their unique journeys, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. 

As we move through the remaining days of May and into the months ahead, we invite our community to carry this message forward: Let’s continue learning. 

 
Let’s continue listening. Let’s continue learning.  

 
And most importantly—let’s continue building a world where everyone belongs. 

Moments of celebration often reflect something greater—growth, resilience, and the power of opportunity. The graduation of the Project SEARCH Class of 2026 is one of those moments. I recently had the privilege of speaking at this year’s ceremony and wanted to share a few reflections on its impact—on the graduates, their families, and the broader community. 

This year’s graduates have reached an important milestone, demonstrating not only their ability to learn, adapt, and persevere, but also their readiness to take meaningful steps into the workforce and their communities.  

Throughout their time in Project SEARCH, these individuals have gained valuable, real-world work experience. More importantly, they have built confidence, strengthened their independence, and developed skills that will support them well beyond the program.  

A Program That Opens Doors 

Project SEARCH is a nationally recognized transition-to-work program designed for young adults with disabilities. The program provides immersive, hands-on training through internships within host businesses—such as healthcare systems—allowing participants to explore careers, gain practical skills, and build a pathway to competitive employment. 

What makes Project SEARCH so impactful is its focus on real opportunity. Participants are not simply learning in a classroom—they are actively contributing to professional environments, working alongside mentors, and developing the competencies needed to succeed in today’s workforce. 

For many graduates, Project SEARCH represents a turning point: 

• A shift from learning to doing 

• From uncertainty to confidence 

• From possibility to achievement 

The Impact on Graduates 

The accomplishments of the Project SEARCH Class of 2026 extend far beyond skill development. Each graduate leaves the program with a deeper sense of self-belief, purpose, and capability. 

Their journey reflects perseverance, dedication, and growth—qualities that will continue to shape their futures.  

These graduates have proven that, when given the right opportunities, they are ready to contribute meaningfully to the workplace and thrive as valued members of their communities. 

The Impact on Families 

Behind every graduate is a network of support—families, caregivers, teachers, and mentors—who have walked alongside them every step of the way. 

This achievement belongs not only to the students, but also to those who encouraged them, advocated for them, and believed in their potential. 

For families, Project SEARCH offers more than a program—it provides reassurance, hope, and the opportunity to see their loved ones gain independence and confidence. It is a reminder that with the right support, growth, and success are always possible. 

Strengthening Our Communities 

The impact of Project SEARCH extends well beyond individual graduates and their families. It reaches workplaces, organizations, and the broader community. 

By creating inclusive employment opportunities, Project SEARCH helps build stronger, more diverse workforces. It challenges perceptions, highlights ability, and reinforces the value that every individual brings to the table. 

Communities benefit when: 

• Employers embrace inclusive hiring practices 

• Individuals with diverse abilities are empowered to contribute 

• Partnerships between organizations and service agencies create pathways to success 

Together, these efforts foster a culture where opportunity is accessible and potential is recognized. 

Moving Forward with Purpose 

The graduation of the Project SEARCH Class of 2026 is not just a conclusion—it is a beginning. 

It reflects what can happen when determination, encouragement, and opportunity come together.  

As these graduates move forward, they carry with them the skills, confidence, and experiences they have gained. They also carry something equally important: the knowledge that they are capable, valued, and ready. 

We are proud of each of them—not only for how far they have come, but for the contributions they will continue to make in the years ahead. 

Congratulations to the Project SEARCH Class of 2026. Your journey is just beginning, and your future is full of promise.

Imagine walking into a space where answers are within reach; connections happen naturally, and support feels not just available—but welcoming. 

On May 30, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the PennWest Edinboro Pogue Student Center, that vision becomes reality through the Disability Resource Fair of Northwest Pennsylvania. 

This is more than an event—it’s an opportunity to bring individuals, families, and professionals together under one roof to explore what’s possible. 

A One-Stop Resource Hub for Families 

For many families—especially those navigating autism/developmental services—the search for the right supports can feel overwhelming. Appointments, waitlists, scattered information, and uncertainty can make it difficult to know where to start. 

The Disability Resource Fair changes that. 

With over 100 vendors, this event is designed to eliminate barriers by offering access to: 

• Therapy providers 

• Special education resources 

• Advocacy organizations 

• Inclusive recreational programs 

• Support for individuals of all ages and abilities 

Instead of making multiple calls or visits, families can gather valuable information, ask questions, and build meaningful connections—all in one place, in one day. 

Why This Matters for the Community 

For individuals with autism /developmental disabilities, and their families, access to the right supports at the right time can have a lasting impact. 

Events like this fair serve as a bridge—connecting families to: 

• Early intervention services 

• School-based and community supports 

• Social opportunities and inclusive programming 

• Peer networks and advocacy groups 

• Adult opportunities 

Just as importantly, the fair fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment. It reminds families they are not alone in their journey and that a network of support exists right here in their community. 

Supporting the Whole Family 

Recognizing that supporting a child or loved one with autism/developmental disabilities extends beyond services alone, the fair also emphasizes caregiver wellness. 

The Caregiver’s Corner offers: 

• Free massages 

• Wellness resources 

• A dedicated space for relaxation and support 

Because when caregivers feel supported, entire families are stronger. 

Accessible, Inclusive, and Truly for Everyone 

The event is thoughtfully designed to remove common barriers: 

• Free admission 

• Free parking and handicap access 

• Opportunities to engage, learn, and participate at your own pace 

From raffles and giveaways to interactive experiences, there is something for every member of the family—including children. 

A special highlight includes the Barber National Institute Kids on the Block Puppet Show at 11:15 a.m., offering an engaging and meaningful way to promote understanding and inclusion. 

Explore. Connect. Discover. 

At its core, the Disability Resource Fair is about more than information—it’s about connection. 

It’s about: 

• Discovering services you didn’t know existed 

• Meeting professionals who genuinely care 

• Building relationships that continue long after the event 

• Strengthening a community that values inclusion 

Join Us 

Whether you are a parent exploring resources, a professional seeking collaboration, or a community member passionate about inclusion, this event is for you. 

📍 PennWest Edinboro – Pogue Student Center 
📅 May 30, 2026 
🕙 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 
💲 Free and open to all 

One day can make a difference. 
One connection can change a path. 

We hope to see you there as we come together to explore, connect, and discover what’s possible—for every individual and every family!