Flagstaff is set to welcome back the Northern Arizona Disability Resource Fair on October 4, a free event aimed at providing information and resources to individuals with disabilities and their families in the region. Organized by the Institute for Human Development (IHD) at Northern Arizona University in partnership with Care 4 the Caregivers, this initiative underscores a growing community need.
Kelly Roberts, the executive director of IHD, reflected on the fair’s initial success in 2024, noting, “When we began organizing the Disability Resource Fair in 2024, we knew it was addressing an important need for the northern Arizona disability community. The response, however, was even greater than we imagined, underscoring just how significant the need is to increase awareness. Last year the exhibit hall sold out and more than 150 community members attended. That momentum is continuing, with more and more local collaborators joining us this year. It’s truly exciting and energizing to see so many people who care about this community coming together to share and learn.”
This year’s fair is expected to host over 30 exhibitors, showcasing a wide range of services such as assistive technology, homecare services, adaptive recreation, mobility solutions, AAC evaluations, and educational support. The emphasis is on bringing these resources closer to the northern Arizona community, reducing the need to travel to Phoenix, where such events are typically held.
Adi Schaeffer, IHD events manager, emphasized the local focus, stating, “This fair brings together local resources and services that directly serve the communities in northern Arizona. We have exhibitors from a wide variety of organizations, and people in the local disability community can network as well as participate in a variety of inclusive fun activities. Additionally, we are offering volunteer opportunities for students and will have all sorts of fun activities and many opportunities to win raffle prizes.”
Enhancing the accessibility and inclusivity of the event, this year’s fair will feature an accessible obstacle course and a sensory room, according to Miles McDonald, communications manager for IHD. “We have added a sensory room because the exhibit hall can get noisy and busy,” McDonald explained. “It will give attendees a chance to get away and into a quiet space for a little bit. The sensory room is sponsored by the Northern Arizona Healthcare Children’s Health Center. They are staffing it and equipping it with sensory items too.”
The fair is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. at the High Country Conference Center, 201 W. Butler Ave. in Flagstaff, and is open to the public with free admission and parking. Light refreshments will be available in the afternoon.
For additional details or to register, please visit the official website or email IHDconference@nau.edu. Although registration is not mandatory, it is encouraged to ensure adequate refreshments and supplies, as well as to provide reasonable accommodations.
Mariana Laas | NAU Communications
(928) 523-5050 | mariana.laas@nau.edu
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