Upper Peninsula Accessibility Summit - September 26th-27th, 2024

The Accessible Keweenaw Initiative (AKI) is excited to announce the first-ever Upper Peninsula Accessibility Summit (UPAS), taking place on September 26-27, 2024, at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts. This landmark event aims to equip businesses, organizations, and community leaders with the tools and strategies needed to create, learn, share, and engage in discussions that will shape a more accessible and inclusive Upper Peninsula.

“UPAS is a chance for our community to come together and explore practical solutions for making our region more accessible,” said Jen Shaud, AKI member. “We aim for attendees to leave with not just knowledge but a commitment to continue this critical discussion.”

Why Attend?

  • Expand Your Market: Discover how improving accessibility can help your business attract a broader customer base, including individuals with disabilities and their families.

  • Expert Insights: Gain actionable strategies from leading experts on universal design, adaptive technologies, and accessibility standards.

  • Inspiring Keynote Speakers:

    • Kaelynn Partlow: A passionate advocate for autism awareness and inclusive education, Kaelynn will share her experiences and insights on creating welcoming environments. Kaelynn was featured on Netflix's, Love On The Spectrum, in 2022.

    • Robin Jones: As Director of the Great Lakes ADA Center, Robin brings national expertise in disability rights and accessibility, helping you understand the importance of ADA compliance and inclusive practices. Robin recently accepted the role of Accessibility Advisor for the 2024 Democratic Convention. 

  • Comprehensive Learning Experience: The summit offers a big-picture overview of accessibility needs and solutions, fostering discussions on sustainable, accessible infrastructure in our communities.

  • Hands-On Experience: Participate in workshops and demonstrations, including adaptive sports equipment, and meet organizations focused on accessibility across the Upper Peninsula.

  • Community Engagement: Network with local business owners, community leaders, and organizations that are committed to making our region more accessible and inclusive.

Registration

Registration includes lunch, keynote sessions, workshops, vendor interactions, and an award ceremony to recognize those making significant contributions to accessibility in our community. Additionally, the summit will feature adaptive communication methods and accessible transportation to ensure an inclusive experience for all participants.

If you know a community member or organization doing incredible work to increase accessibility in the Upper Peninsula, visit bit.ly/UPAS24AWARD to nominate them! If you have any questions or specific accessibility needs, contact: UPAS24info@gmail.com.

Organizers and Sponsors

The Upper Peninsula Accessibility Summit is brought to you by the Accessible Keweenaw Initiative (AKI), with additional organizing support from the Keweenaw Community Foundation, the Western U.P. Planning and Development Region (WUPPDR), Visit Keweenaw, and Michigan Technological University.

The Upper Peninsula Accessibility Summit is largely sponsored by the Keweenaw Community Foundation’s Joe Freed Empowerment Fund, which supports initiatives that empower individuals with mental, intellectual, physical, and/or developmental disabilities. The fund focuses on creating opportunities that enable these individuals to become active, valued community members. Through employment programs, ride-sharing, community engagement, and public awareness campaigns, the fund prioritizes projects with a broad community-wide impact, helping reduce stigma and promote inclusivity across the Copper Country region.

Additional local support is provided by Copper Shores Community Health Foundation, Michigan Technological University, U.P. Health Systems—Portage, Superior National Bank and Trust, and The Scooter Doctor.

Keweenaw Community Foundation