What’s the intention behind The Disability Ally NYC?
The CDC describes it best.
A….Acknowledge and Respect people’s experiences and abilities.
L… Learn about different disability types.
L…Leverage your influence to promote accessibility and inclusion.
Y… yield the floor to people with disabilities to help identify and eliminate barriers.
My name is Kristen Birkelbach and I believe the goals above are my purpose. I am the site administrator and advocate. I have been passionate about working with the Disability Community for many years now. Originally from Galveston, Texas with a Special Education background in teaching, I arrived in New York City back in 2015. What a ride it’s been. Taking a leap from a small coastal town to Big City Life.
I have been fortunate enough to gain expansive knowledge of the city through working privately for a family on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Because of the job specifics, I have been actively involved in many facets of Disability Intervention, Life Skills, and Awareness. Through research and participation, I have uncovered a solid framework of resources currently available to this underserved demographic.
To say nothing about the advocates before me who have worked diligently to gain access to countless programs would be a disservice. I commend each and every one of you who have moved the needle in the right direction. Because of your success thus far, I know anything is possible.
With forced quiet moments of reflection during the lockdown, I was able to visualize an additional hub of material where up-to-date information is located. Therefore, I embarked on a journey to create a website geared solely toward Manhattan residents who have a disability. Additionally, Tourists are able to use the site to plan their NYC trips. They can find drop-in classes, theater, and programs that are accessible to the disability community.
It seems to me that the backdrop of my life has laid a foundation for this endeavor. Will you please allow me to introduce you to some of the outstanding people and places that will capture your heart the way New York has captured mine?
Say Yes, Kristen
I’d love to say in touch. Come follow me here and let’s work together. You’ll see what’s happening all over Manhattan with me The Disability Ally NYC on my Instagram page.
https://www.instagram.com/thedisabilityallynyc/
In addition to the work here and my full-time Job, Did you know I also have a line of Christmas Ornaments? Indeed I did. In fact, I designed them with the Number 1 Christmas Company in the World, Kurt Adler/Santa’s World. That’s right Disability Awareness has seeped into the Christmas Industry. Moreover, I’m solely responsible for bringing the First-Ever Wheelchair Ornament into the MainStream! Check them out and many other designs here. Please buy one for you and a friend.
https://www.instagram.com/dischristmas4u/
New Designs will be added each year so be on the lookout every January.
Lastly, I’ve even taken to Twitter to give shoutouts about certain events-The Disability Ally NYC aims to be the eyes and ears of Manhattan’s Disability Community. Can’t wait to see you around town. Join me
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