Inclusion and Accessibility For Everyone
Our organizational goal is to create events of interest to the young adult community and design activities around principals of inclusion and accessibility for everyone from all communities. We encourage diversity, self-expression, self determination and setting goals that will empower and engage our young adults. We work with people of various ethnic backgrounds and abilities providing a vibrant community environment where members connect through activities provided in accessible venues. Our focus is to provide accessible community recreational/social club services for our members that often lose community services after the age of 22.
We believe an organization built on self-directed growth, community support, social and emotional leadership, and community involvement and backing will cultivate well-rounded, civic- minded community members who can make independent choices in their social lives and throughout the community.
Additionally, our participants recognize that each person has a right to be treated the way they would want to be treated, with kindness and respect
We provide personal outreach to consumers on accessible social media and other platforms. Our programs along with community based programs are available at no charge or for small fees.
All events are held in accessible environments. For participants who do not drive events are hosted near train stations or in areas where the MBTA Ride provides service. Contact us at: access2communityandfriendship@gmail.com
Leadership Team
Andrew Carr
My name is Andrew. I graduated from Westfield State University with a double major in Political Science and History. My personal experiences supporting my twin brother with cerebral palsy and living with a severe hearing loss, has given me a passion for advocacy. I am actively involved in various organizations, including the Winthrop Commission on Disabilities and Easter Seals Massachusetts #Teachdisabilityhistory committee. I am exploring the potential of gaming as another tool for education and social inclusion. I am excited to be part of Access 2 Community and Friendship team and contribute to fostering inclusive social gatherings for a stronger community.
Austin Carr
My name is Austin. I hold certificates in Child/Youth Advocacy and Developmental Disabilities Direct Support from North Shore Community College, where I am currently pursuing an Associate of Science Degree in Developmental Disabilities. I am a Citizen Council Member of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC). I am also a member of EasterSeals Massachusetts’s #teachdisability history campaign. Board member of Piers Park Sailing Center, I understand firsthand the importance of accessible social opportunities. I am incredibly proud to help build a space where adults can connect, explore the community, and form lasting friendships.
Tatiana Thomas
My name is Tatiana. I am continuing my education at Mass Bay Community College. I work as a lunch attendant for the Somerville Public Schools. I am passionate about disability advocacy. I also support the EasterSeals Massachusetts #teachdisabilityhistory campaign. I am a Citizen Council Member of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC), a member of the Department of Public Health Youth Board (DPH). and a member of the Youth Council at the Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN). I am proud to be a co founder of A2CF . I love the opportunities A2CF brings to my friends, families, and community to build friendships, try new things, and have fun together.
Lizzie Gray
My name is Lizzie. I have an Associates Degree from Massasoit Community College in Human Services. I work at the Peach Cobbler Factory as a Cobblerista. I am a member of EasterSeals Massachusetts’s #teachdisability history campaign, where we are trying to make disability history a mandatory part of the curriculum in K-12 Boston Public Schools. I serve as the Secretary on the Board of Directors for Independence Associates, an Independent Living Center. I am also a member of the Canton Commission on Disability. I am excited about Access 2 Community and Friendship. As a young adult with a disability, I want to use my experience to create an inclusive environment for all where we can expand our networks and make new friends.
Sponsors
