THE BENEFITS OF THE CURB EFFECT

Jennifer Oliveri, Director of Advocacy and Family Support

While recently training legal providers on how to better work with clients with disabilities, my co-worker, Stephanie, shared that creating environments that are friendly to people with disabilities makes them better for almost everyone.

Take legal jargon, for instance. Simplifying it into plain language doesn't just help people with disabilities; it also aids anyone for whom English is a second language. Honestly, doesn't it help just about everyone? (Speaking as someone who often feels like a cartoon character with question marks floating above her head when reading legalese.) 

During our discussion, Stephanie shared the term the Curb Effect.

When slanted curbs were introduced to help wheelchair users navigate sidewalks, they also made life easier for parents with strollers, people with carts, and travelers with luggage, etc. More eloquently put, the Curb Effect is "a vibrant illustration of how laws and programs designed to benefit vulnerable groups, such as the disabled or people of color, often end up benefiting all." 

We live in a world designed for those who can see, hear, walk, and talk with ease. Yet, 1 billion people globally have some form of disability, with 110 to 190 million experiencing significant disabilities, according to the World Bank. These individuals often need special adaptations to thrive. The cool part? Many products or adaptations created for people with disabilities end up being used and enjoyed by everyone. 

This got me thinking: what other inventions, initially made to benefit people with disabilities, are now used by, well, just about everyone? Here are a few: 

Typewriters/Keyboards: Ever wonder how I wrote this article? Well, it was on a keyboard (or maybe I used a speech-to-text app, which was also invented for people with disabilities). Fun fact: the typewriter was originally invented to help a blind countess write letters. Now, it's a staple in almost every home and office. And let's not forget speech-to-text, which is on every cell phone and many other everyday devices. The original goal was to help people who couldn't physically write get their thoughts down "on paper," so to speak. Now, it's a lifesaver for anyone who prefers talking to typing (or just has really bad handwriting). 

Electric Toothbrushes: Love your sparkling smile? Nine out of ten dentists recommend an electric toothbrush (there's always that one dentist who likes to be different). These nifty gadgets were designed for those with limited motor skills but are now recommended for everyone. So, next time you're brushing away, thank the inventors who made it easier for all of us to keep our chompers clean. 

OXO Good Grips Kitchen Tools: Created for people with arthritis, these tools have become a favorite in kitchens worldwide. Even if you're not a master chef (which I, most definitely, am not), you probably have some OXO Good Grips tools in your kitchen. Their large handles and comfortable grip make cooking fun, even if the results are, let's say… experimental.

Audiobooks: Sitting for hours on end with Harry Potter not your thing? No worries! Have you tried listening to audiobooks while pretending to exercise, doing some shopping, or just needing a little background noise at work? Audiobooks are the perfect way to enjoy stories without sacrificing precious shelf space for actual books. 

Believe it or not, this genius idea started way back in 1932, thanks to the American Foundation of the Blind. They recorded books on vinyl records—yes, actual records! As technology advanced, so did our ability to listen to books. 

Here's the kicker: When we design for people with disabilities, we end up designing for everyone. It's like a two-for-one deal! Systems often overlook people with disabilities, as if it's some kind of inconvenience. But when we create with them in mind, we come up with innovative, creative, and downright awesome solutions for everyone. 

Next time you use voice commands to request your next audiobook, remember who to thank. (Hint: It's not Siri.) 

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Kyla Parkins, Transition and Young Adult Program Manager

I recently read A Face for Picasso by Ariel Henley where she describes her experience growing up with Crouzon Syndrome, a genetic disorder that can affect how a body, especially a face develops. In this powerful memoir, Ariel illustrates how snap judgments were made about her based on her appearance. People assumed she was unintelligent, or denied her respect and dignity because her face looked different. Different was seen as bad.

We live in a society obsessed with image, especially in an age of social media. Teens and young adults especially are growing up in a world that often cares more about how they look than it does about what they have to say.

The first thing people notice about us is our appearance, and all too often, snap judgments based on inherent biases can be made before getting to know the person. Folks with Down Syndrome may be judged as innocent, young, naïve, – harmful stereotypes. Non-speaking folks may be seen as unaware or unintelligent because they may not communicate in a way folks are used to. Autistic folks stimming may be seen as unfocused or rude. None of these assumptions leave space for further curiosity or understanding.

This type of judgment also affects those with invisible disabilities. Because it is not quickly evident they are disabled, people may assume they don’t need support, or may not think to ask them about accommodations.

It doesn’t help that the beauty industry is inherently inequitable. Clothing is often not designed for every body type, and customized clothing that fits more unique bodies can be expensive and inaccessible. Beauty standards are shaped through a lens that leaves a lot of people out. Expressing yourself through clothing can be a frustrating, othering experience if the clothing industry isn’t designed for you and your body. What is comfortable on your body may not be acceptable to society, and what is acceptable to society may not be comfortable on your body.

Which leads to the question – why does appearance matter so much? Why do we put each other in boxes based on the size or shape of clothing we wear, or based on the way our disability manifests in physical or invisible forms?

I hope for a world where an individual’s comfort in their body is more valued than the comfort of those perceiving them. I hope for a world where our skills and contributions matter more than what we look like, where we aren’t shamed or judged before taking the time to even have a conversation.

My role at The Arc is focused on supporting teens and young adults, and we frequently highlight self-advocacy and self-confidence. We focus on supporting our participants in expressing themselves with pride and not being ashamed of looking, or being, different. We understand the world does not always receive that confidence well. There are many who spend their time trying to tear down what they don’t understand, or more specifically, what they inaccurately assume they understand. But the more we can support our youth in being true to their most authentic, comfortable selves regardless of the judgments that will inevitably come their way, the more resilience and perseverance we hope to cultivate. Our work includes normalizing adaptive technology and accessories. Our work includes normalizing fidgets and necklaces with chew rings. Our work includes normalizing weather appropriate clothing on any body, whether it fits the beauty standard or not. The world isn’t yet at a place of valuing the person over their appearance, but our job is to lead by example and get it one step closer.

LIFE 101: THRIVING AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

When thinking about the future, it often brings a mix of wonder and excitement! It's a time filled with competing emotions – both thrilling and daunting. For young adults with disabilities transitioning from high school into adulthood, these feelings can be even more intense. 

This period is sometimes referred to as the Falling off the Cliff Syndrome, highlighting the gap in support that can occur after school ends. While there are robust supports for children aged 0-3 and built-in supports during school years, the question remains: what supports are available once school is complete? 

To address this, The Arc of Spokane created Preparing for Life After High School, a free, three-part workshop designed for parents and caregivers of young adults aged 14-22. This workshop aims to explore the exciting options that lie ahead, whether it's self-advocacy, college, independent living, employment, adulting skills, or relationships. The world awaiting young adults with disabilities is vast and full of possibilities! 

Understanding that some supports require qualification through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), we've also invited professionals from DDA to explain the qualification process and share tips for faster approval. Additionally, we'll cover Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to ensure you have all the information you need. 

Join us on October 9 from 5:30-7:30 pm, October 16 from 5:30-7:30pm, and October 23 from 5:30-8 pm. Bring your young adult along! They can enjoy activities in our Community Center while you learn. Dinner and snacks will be provided for everyone. More details and the link to register are below.

There is so much hope and support available for students transitioning into adulthood. Come learn about the options and celebrate the possibilities! 

Sessions include:

Imagine 101: Wednesday, October 9, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

• Respect for people with disabilities

• Intro to person-centered planning

• The importance of self-advocacy

• New legislation for the betterment of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families

Believe 201: Wednesday, October 16, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

• Supported decision making

• Alternatives to guardianship

• How to apply for Social Security

• Understanding Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)

Achieve 301: Wednesday, October 23, 5:30-8:00 p.m.

• Transition programs/Adulting 101

• Supported Employment

• Healthy relationships

• Parent to Parent supports

• How to develop a person-centered plan

As the information builds upon itself, please plan on attending all three classes for maximum support.

WHERE:
The Arc of Spokane
320 E. 2nd Ave
Spokane, WA 99202

Learn More About Parent to Parent Resources

Parents may have questions and concerns as they learn about services that can help their child and family and often need time and support to navigate their own emotions and adjust to raising a child with special needs.

Personal support from fellow parent can help with:

• Emotional support for parents
• Information and referrals to community resources
• Connecting you to Trained Helping Parents
• Social and recreational events
• Current information on disabilities, medical conditions and community resources
• Training for parents who would like to become Volunteer Helping Parents
• Public awareness and outreach to the community regarding individuals with disabilities

Learn more about Parent to Parent resources here.

Find local resources for the help you need!

Did you know The Arc of Spokane has a digital resource guide? Click here for information on a variety of different resources!

If you want a more comprehensive and personalized list of resources for your specific situation, please contact our Individual Advocacy Team at advocacy@arc-spokane.org or call (509) 789-8327. They will help you untangle complex issues and the service is free. The Individual Advocacy team is ready to help!

Contact Us

Contact the Advocacy and Family Support Team by emailing us at advocacy@arc-spokane.org.

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