Media Release

4:52 p.m.

 

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Fourth Annual American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Expo will take place Thursday, July 24, 2008 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sidney Lanier School, 312 NW 16th Ave., Gainesville, FL. 

 

The purpose of the Expo is to bring together individuals with disabilities with those agencies, vendors, support groups and organizations they need in their daily life.  The theme is "Towards Independence: Ending the Segregation of People with Disabilities"

 

The keynote speaker will be Dale Dileo, author of "Raymond's Room: Ending the Segregation of People with Disabilities."  Expo highlights include exhibits, vendors, informational groups and support groups on site.

 

"I'm excited about our keynote speaker," says Jackie Hart-Williams, Equal Opportunity Intake/Program Specialist for Alachua County.  "He possesses invaluable knowledge and experience that is beneficial to all institutions, support groups, organizations, and individuals working with individuals with disabilities. He takes a giant step in the struggle to end disability discrimination. I'm passionate in this battle to help people with disabilities gain their independence. To borrow a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: 'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.'  This year's Expo promises to be the best one yet!"

 

The Expo is produced in partnership between the Alachua County Equal Opportunity Office, the City of Gainesville Office of Equal Opportunity, and the Alachua County Public Schools, in cooperation with the Center for Independent Living.  Transportation is provided by MV Transportation.

 

Transportation is free for all holders of an ADA Paratransit card.  Call 352-375-2784 to make a ride reservation.

 

To RSVP and/or to make and accommodations request, call the Equal Opportunity Offices of Alachua County, 352-374-5275 or Gainesville, 352-334-5051.

 

-30-