The Alliance Center for Independence Launches a New Disability Podcast!

The Alliance Center for Independence (ACI) has recently launched a podcast that focuses on issues important to people with disabilities in NJ and throughout the country. The first episode was dropped on August 30th.

Chica and the Disabled Dude is hosted by Brenda Cazares, ACI’s employment services coordinator, and Nybil Ghanem, ACI’s Information and Referral Specialist. Nybil, a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, will provide his first-hand perspective on work, living independently and breaking down attitudinal barriers. Brenda, a Spanish speaker with vast experience in the disability field, will showcase the unique issues facing Hispanic people with disabilities.

The podcast will feature guest interviews and on location broadcasts. Upcoming topics include: sex and people with disabilities, voting rights, employment, etiquette and accessibility.

Read more …
Posted on September 7, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Press Release.

Introducing ACI’s Newest Podcast...Chica and the Disabled Dude!

Coming to an ear near you! A podcast brought to you by the Alliance Center for Independence with your hosts Brenda Cazares and Nybil Ghanem. Chica and the Disabled Dude is a platform to discuss the day to day issues and topics of concern to people with disabilities. Ranging from disability rights, history and benefits, to conversational pieces on dating, representation in the media, and societal barriers. Tune in as we discuss some of the active work ACI is doing to serve those within the community. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Anchor!

Posted on August 31, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella.

Summer Luau Dance Party! ☀️

On August 19th, ACI held a fun summer luau at Joy's Dance House in Fords. Dozens of people came out to enjoy a fun-filled evening with DJ Mike, food, drinks, snacks, games and prizes! We all had so much fun!

Posted on August 22, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Social Rec.

Become a Member of Our Volunteer Team!

The Alliance Center for Independence (ACI) is in need of volunteers to help us with:

  • Mailing flyers and notices to our consumers

  • Shredding old documents

  • Unloading and storing food pantry items

Volunteer Department Hours of Operation

  • Mondays: 9 AM to 1 PM

  • Wednesdays: 9 AM to 1 PM

  • Fridays: 9 AM to 12 PM

We need some dedicated individuals who are able to work a few hours a week.

Must be at least 18 years old or accompanied by parent or guardian.

Interested? Have questions? Contact Argenys at acaba@adacil.org or 732-738-4388.

Posted on August 4, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella.

Disability Rights Are Civil Rights

Written by Nybil Ghanem, Disability Advocate and I&R Specialist for ACI…and VOTER!

Throughout the history of the ADA, disability advocates all across the country continue to fight tirelessly for our civil rights, as well as including accessibility into the mix, at every level at every turn! This will be 32 years since the passing of The Americans with Disabilities Act, more commonly known as The ADA!

It doesn't just begin and end, with every broken sidewalk, no, but with every broken wheelchair, with every broken job turn down, or with every broken healthcare restriction, to every broken piece of assistive technology, that is constantly needing enforcement for change! The ADA helped 'pave the way' for a more inclusive America and with the goal of fighting for endless inclusivity in our homes, in every door entrance, and beyond! These are a few prime examples of how disabled individuals' lives are affected and how far we need to go.

From advocating for NJ Workability on a state level, to increasing funding for all the NJ Centers for Independent Living on a state level, to updating ABLE Laws on the Federal Level, the ADA proclamation was truly just the beginning, but certainly not the end! All people with disabilities and our supporters must continue to let not just our voices be heard, but our rights must be heard even louder!

Disabled and Proud is this disability advocates war cry as I 'wheel on' and march onward to freedom! Onward to strengthening our rights under the ADA!

Posted on July 26, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Advocacy.

July 26th Marks the 32nd Anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act

The Alliance Center for Independence would like to recognize and congratulate the tireless efforts of advocates who worked on getting the Americans with Disabilities Act passed and signed into law 32 years ago on July 26th. This landmark civil rights law has had a profound impact on the lives of people with disabilities in the area of employment, local and state services, areas of public accommodations, and telecommunications.

However, our fight continues. While the ADA has been the law of land for over three decades, the struggle for compliance rests on the shoulders of the present generation of advocates. Employment among people with disabilities remains low, nursing homes and institutions are still warehousing people with disabilities, the fight for simply curb cuts on streets and accessible parking spots still go on.

ACI supports and salutes those who never give up!

Posted on July 26, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella and filed under Advocacy.

Consumer Input Survey for the State Plan for Independent Living 2022

ACI needs your input!

The New Jersey Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is appointed by the Governor and charged with developing and monitoring the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL).

The State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) is a document that outlines the three-year plan to support and enhance New Jersey’s Independent Living Services and the network of Centers for Independent Living. We are in the process of revising the SPIL. As part of this process, we are asking people with disabilities for their input as to what topics are important to gain or maintain their independence in the community.

The information gathered from this survey will provide guidance in the development of the SPIL and will help to guide Independent Living Services to meet the needs of people with disabilities.

Thank you for your time and assistance!

Posted on July 21, 2022 by Brian Mazzarella.