Privacy Policy

Last Updated April 19, 2023

Easter Seals, Inc. (d/b/a "Easterseals") ("we," "our," or "us") understands that data privacy and the protection of personal information is important to you. This Privacy Notice explains how we collect, use and share your personal information, and your rights and choices regarding the personal information we collect about you.

Please read this Notice carefully to understand our policies and practices regarding your personal information and how we will process it. You can also click on the links below to navigate to a specific section.

Scope of Notice
Personal Information Collection
How We Use Personal Information
How We Disclose Personal Information
Easterseals Affiliate Members
Links to Other Sites
Security of Personal Information
Transmission of Health-Related Information
Retention of Personal Information
Your Rights and Choices Regarding your Personal Information
Cookies
International Transfers of Personal Information
Information from Children
Changes to this Notice
Contact Us

1. Scope of Notice

This Privacy Notice applies to all donors, members, website visitors, business partners, employees, job applicants, and individuals who otherwise interact with Easterseals whom we collect personal information from. We often refer to your interactions with us as using our "services" throughout this Notice.

2. Personal Information Collection

We collect a variety of information as part of our operations, including personal information and other information. "Personal information" is any information that identifies, relates to, describes, is reasonably capable of being associated with, or could reasonably be linked, directly or indirectly, with an identifiable individual.

a. How We Collect Personal Information

Easterseals collects information, including personal information, from and about its donors, event attendees and program participants, individuals who interact with our affiliate members, employees and job applicants, individuals who visit our website and other individuals who choose to interact with us. We collect information from or about you in the following ways:

Directly from you. We collect information directly from you when you make a donation, create a user profile on our website, attend an event or program we are offering, apply for employment or gain employment with us, when you visit our website, and when you otherwise voluntarily submit or provide information to us.
Automatically. When you visit and interact with our website, we collect information automatically through cookies. For more information about cookies on our website, please visit the section below titled "Cookies."
From our Affiliate Members. We rely on our affiliate members to provide us with information about the individuals they provide services to and interact with so that we can understand the impact of our and our affiliate members' programs and services, yield actionable insights, and drive future-forward decision making to ensure that our services and programs make the most impact in the communities we serve.
From Other Sources. We may collect information about you from other sources and we may combine information from other sources with information we collect through our services or interactions with you. Examples of the other sources we most frequently collect information from includes national donor data bases and registries, and companies that compile mailing lists about individuals.

b. Types of Personal Information We Collect

The types of personal information we collect depends on how you interact with us, including whether the interaction is through one of our affiliate members or directly with us. In many cases, the personal information we collect will be apparent from the context in which you provide the information.

We collect the following types of personal information from you depending on how you interact with us (i.e., donor, employee, etc.).

Categories of Personal Information	Categories of individuals
Contact Information. This includes your name, mailing address, email address, social media handle, or other similar identifiers.	Donors Employees and job applicants Website visitors Event attendees Program participants Individuals who interact with our affiliate members Easterseals affiliate member users
Identification Information. This includes your SSN, driver's license number, passport number, or similar legal identification information.	Employees and job applicants
Profile Information. This includes information about your activity and interactions with us, including your donor tendencies and donation history, information you voluntarily provide to us or that we collect from other sources regarding your interests, preferences, and characteristics. We compile this information we collect about you to better understand you.	Donors Website visitors Event attendees Program participants Individuals who interact with our affiliate members Easterseals affiliate member users
Health Information. This is information about your health, disability, or medical condition which may include "Protected Health Information" (PHI).	Event attendees Program participants Individuals who interact with our affiliate members Employees and job applicants (if you choose to participate in our group health plan)
Financial Information. This includes information about your wealth and financial status, income, credit card, bank account, or payment information.	Donors Employees and job applicants Individuals who interact with our affiliate members
Location Information. This includes information about your location.	Donors Website visitors Easterseals affiliate member users
Professional or Employment-Related Information. Current or past job history or performance evaluations.	Employees and job applicants Affiliate clinical and non-clinical service providers
Internet or other similar network activity. Browsing history, search history, information on your interaction with a website, application, or advertisement.	Website visitors Donors Easterseals affiliate member users
Interaction Information. This includes information about your attendance at events we host or programs we sponsor, as well as information about correspondence with us and other ways you interact with us.	Donors Event attendees Program participants Website visitors Individuals who interact with our affiliate members Easterseals affiliate member users
Sensitive Personal Information. We may collect certain sensitive personal information including race, gender, and age information. This information is collected in aggregate form.	Employees and job applicants Individuals who interact with our affiliate members Easterseals affiliate member users

We may not collect all of the above categories of information from each category of individual who interacts with us. Please note that if you voluntarily provide us with additional information when you interact with us that does not fit one of these categories of information or individuals set forth above, we will collect the information and use it for the purposes you direct or that we disclose to you.

As noted above, in certain circumstances, we may also collect "Protected Health Information." "Protected Health Information" ("PHI") is individually identifiable health information. We sometimes collect PHI when we gather information about the effectiveness of our programs in order to understand whether a program that we or our affiliate members offered resulted in improved outcomes for the individuals or communities our programs are designed to serve.

3. How We Use Personal Information

We use personal information for our legitimate business purposes to further our mission and for other purposes disclosed to you at the time data is collected. More specifically, we use personal information in the following ways:

Provide our services, programs, and events to the communities and individuals we serve.
Send you confirmations about event or program registration, or donations.
Process donations and gifts made to Easterseals or our affiliate members.
Understand our donor base and potential donors.
Measure the effectiveness of our services, programs, and events, including services, programs, and events offered by our affiliate members.
Communicate with you about our services, programs, events, happenings, and news.
Respond to your comments, inquiries, and customer service requests.
Market our events, services, programs, and potential donor opportunities to you. You may opt-out of marketing communications at any time.
Provide you with employment, or consider you for employment with Easterseals.
Process payroll and other benefits afforded to our employees.
Improve and personalize our content and services.
Monitor and analyze trends regarding our services, programs, and events, including services, programs, and events offered by our affiliate members.
Protect against and prevent fraud, unauthorized transactions, and manage risk exposure.
Enforce our legal rights and agreements.
Comply with applicable legal requirements.
Carry out any other purpose you consent to, that we disclose to you at the time your data is collected, or that you direct us to.

We may aggregate and de-identify personal information we collect from you to understand the effectiveness of our programs, services, and offerings, as well as to understand our donor base and donor trends. When we aggregate or de-identify information, it is no longer personally identifiable.

4. How We Disclose Personal Information

Easterseals may share your personal information in the following circumstances, and as otherwise described in this Notice:

Affiliate Members. We share information with our affiliate members in order to understand and improve the impact of our and our affiliate members' programs, services, and offerings. Please see the section below titled "Easterseals Affiliate Members" for more information.
Service Providers, Vendors, and Consultants. We rely on third parties to perform functions on our behalf. Some of these service providers include marketing service providers, payment service providers who help us process donations and pay our employees, cloud storage providers, website hosting platforms, client relationship management providers, HR or employee benefits providers, and content providers. We endeavor to ensure written agreements are in place with all service providers, vendors, and consultants where feasible and appropriate. All service providers, vendors, and consultants are required to use the information we disclose to them at our direction and only for the purpose(s) for which it was disclosed to them, and they are required to adhere to security and confidentiality measures.
List Rental and Exchange Program. We may share certain information about our donors with national donor registration and list service providers in order to grow our donor base and more effectively reach current and prospective donors. If you do not wish for your information to be shared with these third parties, you may opt-out by contacting us via a method set forth in the "Contact Us" section below or by visiting our website and contacting us through a means listed on our website. If you would like to know which third parties participate in the list rental and exchange program, you may also contact us via one of the methods listed below.
Law Enforcement Agencies, Courts, Regulators, Government Authorities, or Other Third Parties. We may disclose your information: 1) to apply with a legal obligation or court order; 2) when we believe in good faith that the law requires it; 3) at the request of governmental authorities conducting an investigation; 4) to verify or enforce our policies, procedures, terms of service, and other agreements, or to protect the rights, property, safety, and security of Easterseals, our members, vendors, business partners, service providers, affiliate members, website visitors, or the public; 5) to respond to an emergency; or 6) when we believe it is necessary or appropriate to prevent physical harm or financial loss, or in connection with an investigation of suspected or actual illegal activity.
Successor Entities, Buyers, Transfers and Mergers and Acquisitions. We may disclose your information to a buyer, potential buyer, successor in interest, or to an organization in connection with a bankruptcy, transfer, merger or acquisition, or other transfer of some or all of Easterseals' or an affiliate's assets, which may include your information. If this occurs, we will endeavor to ensure that the successor entity uses your personal information in accordance with this Privacy Notice, or provides you with notice and a choice about future use of your personal information.

5. Easterseals Affiliate Members

Easterseals has a number of affiliate members throughout the United States who interact directly with the populations we serve by bringing Easterseals' mission and work directly into the community in which the affiliate member operates. While our affiliate member organizations are associated with and use Easterseals branding, they may have their own practices regarding how they collect, use, share, and retain information when you interact with them.

As described above, affiliate members share information with us, and we share information with our affiliate members. This information sharing occurs so that we can understand the impact of our and our affiliate members' programs and services, yield actionable insights, and drive future-forward decision making so that we can continue to further the Easterseals' mission of equity, inclusion, and access for individuals with disabilities.

6. Links to Other Sites

Easterseals' website may contain links to other sites, including to our affiliate members, as well as links to non-affiliated third parties, such as social networks or business partners. These linked sites may have personal information collection, use, and disclosure practices that differ from Easterseals' practices. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of websites that you visit before sharing your personal information with them. Please also be aware that if you disclose personal information, PHI, or other sensitive information through public forums, at an event, or on online message boards, this information may be used by others. We take no responsibility for the content, security, or confidentiality of any information posted on or conveyed in these public spaces.

7. Security of Personal Information

Easterseals knows that information security is of the utmost important to our donors, affiliate members, website visitors, and individuals whose information we collect. We maintain reasonable technical, administrative, physical, and organizational safeguards in proportion to the sensitivity of information we collect that are designed to prevent unauthorized access, use, and disclosure of personal information.

However, no electronic data transmission or processing of personal information is completely secure, so we cannot guarantee the security of personal information. We encourage you to assist us with securing your personal information by using a strong password and not disclosing your login credentials, where applicable, to anyone. If we become aware of an incident that affects your personal information, we will investigate and comply with all reporting obligations.

8. Transmission of Health-Related Information

Easterseals understands the sensitivity of collecting and using health-related data. It is not Easterseals' intent to collect personally identifiable health-related information or PHI. If we do collect personally identifiable health-related information or PHI, it will not be used by or shared with entities other than Easterseals or our affiliate members, unless the information is de-identified. Any transfer of personally identifiable health-related data between Easterseals organizations will take place in a secure environment with access allowed only to certain qualified employees of Easterseals. Easterseals will comply with all regulations set forward by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). To learn more about HIPAA, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights.

9. Retention of Personal Information

We will retain your information only for as long as necessary to achieve the purpose for which it was collected. This may mean that we will continue to retain certain information even after we stop providing our services directly or indirectly to you, after you delete your user profile, or cease interacting with us, as required by law or for our legitimate business purposes. We may also retain de-identified, aggregated, or anonymous information that does not identify a particular individual. In all cases where we retain data, we do so in accordance with limitation periods and record retention obligations that are imposed by applicable law.

10. Your Rights and Choices Regarding your Personal Information

Easterseals offers various rights that are consistent with state consumer privacy laws. Easterseals offers the option to access, correct, and delete your personal information. If you are a registered user of our website, you can access your Easterseals profile and update your contact information and user preferences by clicking here. Upon your request, we will delete, aggregate, or de-identify personal information related to you that is retained in our organizational databases, unless we are required to continue to retain the information in an identifiable format. To exercise your right to deletion, or to modify or correct your information other than through the link above, please contact us via a method set forth in the below "Contact Us" section.

You can also change your communication preferences and opt-in or opt-out of marketing communications from Easterseals. To opt-out of receiving email communications, postal mail or from participating in the list rental and exchange program, or to request a disclosure of list rental and exchange information, please follow the directions below.

Email: If you are a registered user of easterseals.com, login to change your email preferences.You may also opt out of certain non-essential marketing email communications using the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of the email.
Postal Mail: Opt-out of postal mail solicitations
List Rental and Exchange: Opt-out of list rental and exchange program
Disclosure Request: Request disclosure of list rental and exchange practices

We will endeavor to fulfill all requests within a reasonable timeframe.

11. Cookies

Our website uses or may use cookies, web beacons, pixel tags, and similar technologies (collectively, "cookies"). Cookies are small text files stored directly on a website visitor's computer or mobile device that automatically collect certain information from users such as browser type, IP address, time spent online, pages visited, referring URL, and additional aggregated website traffic data. We also rely on partners to provide features of our services, which may involve using cookies.

We use cookies for the following purposes:

Functionality. These cookies are necessary for us to ensure that the website functions properly.
Security. These cookies are necessary for us to mitigate the risk of data breaches and similar attacks by ensuring that requests are submitted to our website from proper domains.
Authentication. These cookies allow us to authenticate user requests and to maintain session information related to users.
Preference. These cookies allow our website to remember which events you have signed up or registered for, the products you place in your shopping cart, and to recognize your device.
Advertising. These cookies allow us to provide you with more relevant advertisements.
Analytics. These cookies enable us to learn more about how users and visitors interact with our website, including pages visited, how much time is spent on each pages, and similar information. We use this information in aggregate.
Third-Party. These cookies are placed by third parties such as Google and social media networks. These cookies track and monitor how you interact with our services and other websites, provide us insight into how you interact with our website (such as analytics), facilitate account registration and login, and also enable the sharing of content from our services to these third parties. We do not control the data use or sharing practices of these third parties. If you do not wish to accept third party cookies, we encourage you to update your browser settings accordingly.

The use of cookies has become standard among website operators. Most browsers are initially set to accept cookies. You can usually set your browser to refuse cookies that are not necessary or to indicate when a cookie is being set. To understand your options regarding cookies, you can visit the help section of your web browser, or take a look at the links below:

Chrome: https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/95647?hl=en
Firefox: https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/cookies-information-websites-store-on-your-computer
Edge: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-edge/delete-cookies-in-microsoft-edge-63947406-40ac-c3b8-57b9-2a946a29ae09
Internet Explorer: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/delete-and-manage-cookies-168dab11-0753-043d-7c16-ede5947fc64d
Safari: https://support.apple.com/guide/safari/manage-cookies-sfri11471/mac

If you refuse cookies, you may not be able to use certain functions on our website and our website may not function as smoothly as it does when cookies are enabled.

12. International Transfers of Personal Information

Easterseals and all of its affiliate members are located in the United States, and all programming offered by Easterseals and its affiliate members occurs in the United States. Because of the global nature of the internet, the Easterseals website may be accessible from jurisdictions other than the United States, even though Easterseals does not operate, provide, or market its services outside of the United States. If you access the Easterseals website outside of the United States, your information will be transferred to and processed in the United States. Since the data protection laws of various countries differ, information transferred to the United States may not be subject to the same level of protection as the jurisdiction in which you reside. If you choose to access our website from a jurisdiction outside the United States, we rely on your consent to transfer the data to the United States. To the extent you do not consent to data transfers to the United States, please do not provide us with your personal information or visit our website.

13. Information from Children

Our website is not directed towards children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under the age of 13 through our website without parental consent. If you become aware that we have collected personal information from an individual under the age of 13 through our website without parental consent, please let us know so that we can take appropriate action.

14. Changes to this Notice

We may update this Privacy Notice from time to time. If we make material updates to this Notice, we will endeavor to provide you notice by placing a prominent notice on this website and/or sending an email notification of the change. We will also update the "last updated" date at the top of this policy. Any changes will be effective immediately on posting unless otherwise indicated. Continued use of our services after updates to our Notice will be deemed consent to the changes.

15. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Notice or our information practices, please contact us by emailing us through this link or directly at info@easterseals.com, calling us toll-free at 800-221-6827, or writing to us at:

Easter Seals, Inc.
Attn: Privacy Manager
141 W. Jackson Blvd
Suite 1400A
Chicago, IL 60604

Our blog

From Graduation to Success: Kamal’s Path to Employment
Friday, March 7, 2025, 10:17 AM

From Graduation to Success: Kamal’s Path to Employment

Friday, March 7, 2025, 10:17 AM

Just after Kamal’s high school graduation in June 2024, he came to Easterseals New Jersey’s Supporte…

Just after Kamal’s high school graduation in June 2024, he came to Easterseals New Jersey’s Supported Employment program seeking job opportunities. Assisted by his mother, the shy but friendly teen was eager to speak with a job coach in hopes of finding his very first job.

Kamal was supported by Employment Specialist Jehron Holland, who discussed his goals, developed new interview skills, and learned what jobs were available in his area. After five months, in November 2024, Kamal had the opportunity to speak with members from Jetro Restaurant Depot in Atlantic County, a recent partnership of Easterseals.

After discussing their current job openings, Kamal realized one aligned with his skills and happily accepted an offer as their new Cleaning Porter. Kamal worked tirelessly and dedicated himself to learning all about his new position so he could do his best. Recently, Kamal celebrated reaching his 90-day mark with the company!

We are so proud to see Kamal thriving in his new workplace and are grateful to Jetro Restaurant Depot for their partnership in finding him a position!

The post From Graduation to Success: Kamal’s Path to Employment appeared first on Opportunity Outreach Newsletter.
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From Apprehension to Leadership: Arisbel’s Journey of Transformation
Monday, January 27, 2025, 12:23 PM

From Apprehension to Leadership: Arisbel’s Journey of Transformation

Monday, January 27, 2025, 12:23 PM

Arisbel joined Easterseals New Jersey in 2019, struggling with challenging behaviors, including aggr…

Arisbel joined Easterseals New Jersey in 2019, struggling with challenging behaviors, including aggression and hesitation toward new experiences. At the time, she lacked the confidence to navigate tasks independently and step outside of her comfort zone. With the guidance, support, and encouragement from our dedicated staff, Arisbel has transformed her life in ways that inspire everyone around her.

After a few years in our programs, Arisbel began to feel like she could take a new step toward her independence. In 2024, she transitioned to the Middlesex PACE program, our hybrid Day Habilitation Without Walls and Pre-Vocational initiative. This innovative program provides participants with opportunities to build life and work skills outside of traditional program settings by immersing them in community-based environments. It empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to develop the confidence they need to thrive.

Arisbel embraced the program wholeheartedly. Once hesitant to try new things, she now leads discussions with her peers on topics like health, wellness, and community building. She is often the first to step up and assist others, offering encouragement to peers who may feel uncertain.

Her journey of volunteering showcases the depth of her transformation. When she first began volunteering at Goodwill, Arisbel would often say, “I could do that if I had help.” With mentorship from staff like Casondra Brooks, Arisbel now takes initiative without prompting, eagerly diving into new tasks. As Casondra describes, “Arisbel’s go-to phrase is now, ‘I’ll try it,’ and she gives her best effort every time.”

At Hands of Hope Soup Kitchen, Arisbel serves others with pride and looks forward to each visit. At Goodwill, she takes the lead in greeting customers and independently tackles new tasks, demonstrating her readiness for meaningful employment.

Today, Arisbel is applying for DVRS funding to pursue competitive paid employment in the community. Her journey from apprehension to leadership is a testament to the power of possibility when individuals are given the right support and opportunities.

Arisbel’s story reminds us of the incredible impact of our mission. Through programs like Day Habilitation Without Walls and Pre-Vocational, we help individuals overcome barriers, grow in confidence, and find independence.

The post From Apprehension to Leadership: Arisbel’s Journey of Transformation appeared first on Opportunity Outreach Newsletter.
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Pre-Employment Success!
Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 9:14 AM

Pre-Employment Success!

Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 9:14 AM

Story written by Employee Experience Specialist at Easterseals NJ, Monica Cucciniello Earlier this y…

Story written by Employee Experience Specialist at Easterseals NJ, Monica Cucciniello

Earlier this year, I had the incredible opportunity to attend The Chamber of Commerce Networking Event at Rutgers University. I was unsure of what to expect, but after being there for a short time, I knew it would be an unforgettable experience. From being greeted by the welcoming Chamber of Commerce Committee Members to meeting such outstanding, kind, and hardworking employees, I knew this experience was something every organization should be a part of.

Although the overall experience was spectacular, there was one company to which I felt a strong connection. Danielle Androvich, Easterseals NJ Supported Employment Manager, and I were able to network with two amazing members from Paul Davis Restoration: Douglas, the owner and CEO, and Talya, the Job Cost Accountant/Office Manager.

Douglas and Tayla explained how their new and upcoming company is growing, with a core mission of changing people’s lives during critical times. Whether it’s a fire, severe mold or water damage, the loss of a home, a natural disaster, etc., they are life savers to those in need. Their drive, motive, and passion made me want to connect with them even more.

After explaining how, at Easterseals NJ, we enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities and work with high school students on pre-employment training, we knew there would be a way for our companies to benefit from one another. Paul Davis Restoration was willing to have our students learn about what they do and what positions there are to choose from, which would be an unbeatable opportunity. Directly after exchanging business cards and contact information, we set up a tour to visit the Paul Davis facility.

Upon arriving, the students were greeted by four passionate employees: Junior, John, Doug, and Talya, and learned about the impact Paul Davis makes on people’s lives. The students were given the opportunity to ask questions, engage with the employees, and work directly hands-on with their equipment. Each student was absolutely amazed at how dedicated the employees at Paul Davis are to making a positive impact on the world. Each student expressed their gratitude and interest in working behind the scenes at Paul Davis’s warehouse and for the most amazing tour experience they have ever been a part of.

After this inspiring event at the Chamber of Commerce, I am so honored to be a part of their community and to see the endless positive networking outcomes that are tremendously beneficial to the companies around New Jersey.

The post Pre-Employment Success! appeared first on Opportunity Outreach Newsletter.
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Embracing Inclusivity: A Guide to Better Communication with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community
Friday, September 1, 2023, 8:24 AM

Embracing Inclusivity: A Guide to Better Communication with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community

Friday, September 1, 2023, 8:24 AM

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, promoting inclusivity is not just a buzzword but …

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, promoting inclusivity is not just a buzzword but a vital aspect of fostering understanding, empathy, and unity. This month, September, is Deaf Awareness Month, and we want to discuss breaking down the communication barriers the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (D/HoH) community faces.

At Easterseals New Jersey, our Career Pathways Connections program provides opportunities for individuals in the D/HoH community to enter the workforce and obtain sustainable employment. We help our participants identify their skill sets to find where they want to take their career goals. We also work to shed light on effective strategies companies can utilize to enhance their accessibility in the workplace. Today, we want to spread these effective strategies with YOU, not only to use in your workplace but in your communities.

Educate Yourself

Understanding Deaf culture, history, and the challenges faced by D/HoH individuals is essential. You can better navigate conversations and interactions by educating yourself on communication methods (such as sign language) and assistive technologies. You can start by looking here to find an easy mobile app: ihttps://geekflare.com/sign-language-learning-apps/

Learn Basic Sign Language

While learning a new language may seem daunting, picking up basic sign language can go a long way. Familiarize yourself with common signs, the finger-spelling alphabet, and simple phrases. This effort shows your willingness to bridge the communication gap. A resource that can help with this is: https://www.educationalappstore.com/best-apps/best-apps-for-learning-sign-language

Maintain Eye Contact and Facial Expressions

When engaging in a conversation, maintaining eye contact and using facial expressions can help convey your emotions and intentions more effectively. This visual communication is essential for building a strong connection.

Use Clear and Simple Language

Using clear and straightforward language is crucial when communicating in writing or speech. Avoid jargon, complicated vocabulary, or unnecessary slang. This approach benefits not only D/HoH individuals but also promotes effective communication with everyone.

Respect Communication Preferences

It’s important to ask D/HoH individuals about their preferred communication method. Some might prefer sign language, while others may rely on lip reading, writing, or technology-assisted methods. Respecting their choice demonstrates your commitment to effective interaction.

Make Use of Technology

Modern technology offers a variety of tools that facilitate communication with D/HoH individuals. Text messaging, video calls with captioning, and instant messaging apps are just a few examples. Utilizing these platforms helps bridge communication gaps and promotes inclusivity. You can check out some of the tools here:https://www.vocovision.com/blog/assistive-technology-deaf-hard-of-hearing/

Provide Accommodations

Ensure accommodations are in place in various settings, such as workplaces, events, and educational institutions. This could include sign language interpreters, video captioning services, and accessible materials.

Avoid Patronizing Behavior

Treating D/HoH individuals respectfully means treating them as equals, not as people needing pity or special treatment. Avoid shouting, speaking unnaturally slow, or over-exaggerating your lip movements. These actions can be condescending and counterproductive.

Foster an Inclusive Environment

Inclusivity extends beyond individual interactions. Advocate for Deaf-friendly policies and practices in your community. Encourage using sign language interpreters at public events, captioned content in media, and accessible facilities.

Listen and Learn

Engage in conversations with D/HoH individuals to learn about their experiences, challenges, and perspectives. By actively listening and seeking to understand, you contribute to a more inclusive society.

Being more inclusive of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals requires a combination of empathy, education, and effort. By taking the time to learn about Deaf culture and communication methods, as well as respecting their preferences and using available technology, you can play an essential role in breaking down communication barriers and creating a more inclusive world for everyone. Remember, inclusivity benefits us all and strengthens the fabric of our diverse society. If you or anyone you know is a part of the D/HoH population and is looking for help entering the workforce and obtaining sustainable employment, please contact us at 855.215.4541 or go to eastersealsnj.org.

The post Embracing Inclusivity: A Guide to Better Communication with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community appeared first on Opportunity Outreach Newsletter.
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Embrace the Great Outdoors: Exploring Outdoor Accessibility in New Jersey this Summer
Tuesday, August 1, 2023, 3:21 PM

Embrace the Great Outdoors: Exploring Outdoor Accessibility in New Jersey this Summer

Tuesday, August 1, 2023, 3:21 PM

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to venture out and embrace New Jersey’s…

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to venture out and embrace New Jersey’s natural beauty. This picturesque state is not only known for its cities and rich history but also boasts outdoor spaces catering to people of all abilities. In this blog, we at Easterseals NJ explore outdoor accessibility options in New Jersey, ensuring everyone can experience the joy of nature this summer.

Accessible Beaches

New Jersey’s coastline has pristine beaches, and many offer excellent accessibility options for individuals with disabilities. Some beaches have wheelchair-accessible boardwalks and beach mats that lead right to the water’s edge. This makes it possible for individuals using mobility aids to enjoy the sand and surf. Popular accessible beaches in New Jersey include Island Beach State Park, Wildwood Beach, and Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park.

Inclusive Trails and Parks

When it comes to outdoor recreation, there are a plethora of parks and trails designed to be accommodating. County and state parks often feature accessible picnic areas, restrooms, and paved pathways suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Some notable parks to explore are Liberty State Park and Kittatinny Valley State Park. And don’t miss Duke Farms, which offers over 18 miles of accessible trails, ponds, and gardens.

Botanical Gardens

New Jersey is home to some of the most stunning botanical gardens in the country. These oases of natural beauty often offer accessible pathways, sensory gardens, and tranquil settings. The New Jersey Botanical Garden at Skylands and the Grounds For Sculpture are two examples of places where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying accessible surroundings.

Accessible Camping

For those who wish to extend their outdoor experience, New Jersey has campgrounds equipped with accessible facilities. Many campgrounds provide accessible cabins and restrooms, making camping a viable option for people with disabilities. Worthington State Forest and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest are among the state parks that offer accessible camping opportunities.

Adaptive Sports and Recreation

For those seeking a more active experience, New Jersey offers a range of adaptive sports and recreational activities. Organizations such as the Adaptive Recreation Services at the Ocean County Parks provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in adaptive sports like kayaking, cycling, and fishing. These programs foster inclusivity and ensure everyone can enjoy outdoor adventure thrills.

This summer, don’t let accessibility concerns hold you back from exploring the great outdoors in New Jersey. The state’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that individuals of all abilities can enjoy the breathtaking beaches, parks, trails, and recreational activities it has to offer. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll in a botanical garden, a refreshing swim in the ocean, or a thrilling adventure on a bike, New Jersey has something to suit everyone’s interests.

So, pack your bags, invite your friends and family, and set out on a memorable outdoor adventure this summer. Embrace the beauty of New Jersey’s natural landscapes and create lasting memories as you experience the joys of outdoor accessibility firsthand. Happy exploring!

For more information about programs throughout NJ and advocating for accessibility and inclusion, please visit eastersealsnj.org.

The post Embrace the Great Outdoors: Exploring Outdoor Accessibility in New Jersey this Summer appeared first on Opportunity Outreach Newsletter.
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