The San Mateo County Commission on Disabilities today celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking more than two decades promoting independence and inclusivity of all people by finding solutions, creating opportunities and coordinating resources.
The Commission on Disabilities commemorated this milestone Friday, Aug. 26, 2016 with a celebratory luncheon at Poplar Creek Grill in San Mateo attended by several officials including U.S. Congresswoman Anna Eshoo who spearheaded its creation while serving on the Board of Supervisors.
“Thanks to the vision of Anna Eshoo who saw the gaps in access for people with disabilities, the County created this body to be a much-needed voice in advising the Board of Supervisors on related issues. Our entire community is better for it and I’m proud to help honor the Commission on this important anniversary,” said Supervisor Carole Groom, District Two, who hosted the luncheon with the Honorary Chair, County Manager John Maltbie.
The Commission on Disabilities is a 21-member advisory board to the Board of Supervisors whose members include individuals with disabilities, families of individuals with disabilities, service providers, agencies and others interested in representing the larger disability community. Eshoo created a task force — the precursor to the Commission — to investigate and remedy barriers to access.
Among the Commission accomplishments are:
* Hosting the People Who Care Awards Dinner & Art Showcase of artists with disabilities
* Ensuring Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance at County facilities and online
* Developed a housing resource guide for seniors and persons with disabilities
* Providing disability awareness training
* Developed a comprehensive plan for all playgrounds in County parks
* Working with the Elections Office on improved polling site accessibility
* Hosting ADA symposiums for County staff and cities
* Hosting the annual Transition to Independence Fair for high schoolers
“The road to complete accessibility is far from over but we’ve come so far thanks to the Commission, Congresswoman Eshoo and the support of the current Board. Our County prides itself on being a place for everyone,” said Commission Chair Susan Castoria.
The Commission has open recruitment year round. For more information on the Commission on Disabilities, visit http://www.smchealth.org/smccod.