Accessible West Michigan

Every polling place in Michigan is required to have accessible equipment to help those with disability cast their ballots independently.

Poll worker training key to smooth voting experience for people with disabilities

Election inspectors are equipped with tools during training — known as disability etiquette — that they can use to assist voters with disabilities. 

Elizabeth Ferry, of Holland, rides her motorized wheelchair on the sidewalk along Howard Avenue in Holland Township.
Holland woman, and others with disabilities, faced enhanced challenges during COVID-19 pandemic

Even with masking and other precautions, Elizabeth Ferry said that she – like other people with disabilities she knows – lived in fear during the pandemic, afraid that her aides would quit, and she would be unable to replace them.

Lori Hastings
Lori’s Voice enriches lives of children with disabilities

Lori's Voice is an all-volunteer nonprofit founded to help young people with disabilities. Founder Lori Hastings remembers what it was like growing up a neurological disorder. Now, she's making sure other challenged youth have what they need.

Nearly a third of Michigan adults report having at least one disability.
Series to explore the state of West Michigan’s growing disability community

This article begins a weekly series that will explore the challenges faced by those with disabilities along with the efforts across West Michigan to address the discrimination and inequity.

Our Partners

Disability Advocates of Kent County logo
Kids Food Basket
The Right Place
Grand Rapids Public Museum

Don't miss out!

Everything Grand Rapids, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.