Disability Awareness Month

Published on October 01, 2026

DisabilityAwareness2026

October is Disability Awareness Month and it’s an important time to recognize the achievements and contributions of individuals with disabilities, and to recommit to ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.

With approximately 70 million adults in the United States living with a disability, representing a wide array of abilities and backgrounds, this month serves as a powerful reminder of the diversity, personal resilience and strength within this community.

Unfortunately, people with disabilities are often not treated—nor seen—as equal or valued members of society.

The City of Lakewood has issued a proclamation in recognition of Disability Awareness Month (see side panel). 

Lakewood continues accessibility enhancements

The City of Lakewood is actively working to improve accessibility and inclusion for its residents with disabilities.

Lakewood is proud of the playgrounds in its many neighborhood parks, and as those playgrounds are upgraded, the city looks for creative ways to make them accessible and inviting for all children, including those with disabilities.

The upcoming enhancements to the Weingart Senior Center—such as new flooring, lighting, ADA-compliant restrooms, and additional hearing loops—reflect a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

Similarly, the DASH transit program, with its wheelchair-accessible buses and vans, ensures that reliable transportation is available for those in need. All DASH buses and the six new vans are wheelchair accessible. To become a DASH rider, call city staff at 562-924-0149. 

Lakewood’s partnership with Special Olympics Southern California and the ongoing Adaptive Recreation Program at Bloomfield Park are exemplary efforts to provide meaningful athletic and recreational opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For information, contact Bloomfield Park staff at 562-865-1717.

For more information on how the City strives to ensure equal access to all, visit Lakewood's Accessibility page.

City Proclamation

Lakewood City Council proclamation in recognition of Disability Awareness Month.

Disability Awareness Month Proclamation

Disabled Resources Center

DRC offers programs designed to help people with disabilities live independently, make their own decisions and advocate for themselves. Services include:

  • assistive technology
  • benefits counseling
  • employment assistance
  • independent living skills
  • travel training
  • utility assistance
  • emergency preparedness
  • support for youth transitioning to adulthood

The organization also offers support groups, community events and other resources.

Eighty-six percent of DRC staff are people with disabilities, bringing firsthand experience to the services they provide.

DRC serves Lakewood and nine other communities in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

Visit the DRC at 2750 E. Spring Street, Ste.100 in Long Beach or call 562-427-1000

Learn more about the DRC
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