What We Do

Education is the cornerstone of realizing the ADA’s goals of full participation, independent living, economic self-sufficiency, and equal opportunity. AAPD is committed to promoting access to education from preschool through post-graduate work. We take a comprehensive approach to educational access, including advocacy, partnerships with educational institutions, and programs designed to break down barriers to education.

Employment opportunity means economic self-sufficiency and independence. AAPD is committed to improving employment outcomes for the many people with disabilities who are not working but are ready, willing and able to work. We promote legislation and policy that promotes opportunities for people with disabilities, partner with employers to improve business practices and develop mentoring programs, and offer career opportunities to students and recent graduates with disabilities.

Access to quality, affordable health care is the foundation of an independent, productive life. For people with disabilities, who often have significant health care needs, health care access is crucial. AAPD supports quality physical and mental health care that is accessible, affordable, community-based, self-determined, and responsive to individual needs.

Access to housing is crucial to our security and independence. Federal law prohibits any discrimination in housing - in sales, rental, financing and other housing related transactions – based on disability. It also mandates accessible housing for people with disabilities.

Every child and adult has a right to be valued and welcomed in the House of God of their choice. The mission of the AAPD Interfaith Initiative is to support people with disabilities and their families as they seek spiritual and religious access, and to bring the powerful and prophetic voice of the faith community to the 21st Century disability agenda.

AAPD works to promote equal rights for people with disabilities in the international sphere. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) was passed by the UN General Assembly in December of 2006 and came into force on May 3, 2008.

Coming Soon.

We live in a wireless, touch-screen, online world where technology evolves almost daily. AAPD’s Telecommunications and Technology Policy Initiative (TTPI) works to ensure that technological advances and federal policy benefit people with disabilities equally. TTPI monitors accessibility, usability and affordability within all technology, including communications and assistive technologies.

Access to affordable and reliable transportation allows people with disabilities important opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, housing and participation in community life. People with disabilities—particularly in rural areas—need accessible, affordable transportation options that bring employment, health care, education, and community life within reach.

Full political participation for Americans with disabilities is a top priority. AAPD works with state and national coalitions on effective, non-partisan campaigns to: Eliminate barriers to voting, promoting accessible voting technology and polling places; educate voters about issues and candidates; promote turnout of voters with disabilities across the country; and protect eligible voters’ right to participate in elections.

We are grateful to the millions of American veterans who have selflessly served our nation. For many veterans with disabilities, their sacrifice does not end with their service or injury: veterans experience high rates of unemployment, homelessness, and chronic health problems.