We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Winona Community Foundation for awarding us a generous $7,500 grant to improve accessibility at our Central Office, located at 66 East Third Street. This support is pivotal in helping us make our building fully accessible, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can navigate the space with ease and dignity.

A central focus of the project is to enhance our back (ramp) entrance, which currently presents significant barriers for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids. We plan to widen the ramp and install a more user-friendly door system that will ensure greater accessibility. Additionally, we will be adding extra grab bars, railings, and other essential accessibility features throughout the building. These upgrades will not only enhance the safety and dignity of the individuals we serve but will also provide staff, vendors, and community members with an easier, more independent experience while navigating the facility.

Our building is not just home to our agency but also serves as a hub for community services. Apple Tree Dental operates a mobile dental clinic here once a month, and the Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services office is located on-site, offering critical support to many in our community. However, the current limitations of our building’s accessibility have hindered some individuals from fully utilizing these important services. With these planned improvements, we aim to eliminate these barriers and ensure that all who visit our building can do so independently and safely.

We are deeply grateful to the Winona Community Foundation for their vital support, which allows us to continue creating a welcoming, inclusive environment. This project aligns perfectly with our mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities and create a community where everyone can access the services they need with dignity and respect.

Thank you again to the Winona Community Foundation for their commitment to accessibility and for helping us bring our vision to life!