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The Community Living Education Project (CLEP)
Rutgers logo
The Community Living Education Project (CLEP)
Rutgers logo
The Community Living Education Project (CLEP)
Rutgers logo
The Community Living Education Project (CLEP)
Holidays and Important Dates

Are New Year's Resolutions Helpful in the Disability Community?

By

Laura Warne

Date

January 7, 2025

For many people, January brings a sudden desire to "fix" oneself. Quit that bad habit once and for all, lose some weight, and through one channel or another become a better version of yourself. 

Forbes Magazine published an excellent article by disability blogger Andrew Pulrang on this topic. Entitled 2023 New Year's Resolutions for People with Disabilities, the author reminds readers that it is essential for all resolutions to be made in the spirit of authentic self-kindness, as well as important to the person making them, not imposed by others.

While this might seem like obvious advice, the author takes things a step farther by suggesting people look outward for their resolutions and make a resolution that addresses systemic failures and inadequacies that hold people with disabilities back from being the best version of themselves.

Here is where people who don't experience disabilities personally can step in, too! We love the idea of turning the concept of a New Year's Resolution back on its head and directing change toward the systems that most limit quality of life for the millions of Americans who experience a disability. For example, someone could resolve to no longer ignore accessibility barriers they come across. If the elevator in your building is always out of service, say something! If there is no curb cut in front of your office, ask that something be done about that.

We'd love to hear some more ideas!

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Holidays and Important Dates

A Week to Celebrate Direct Service Professionals

Every day, Direct Service Professionals (DSPs) make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. During Direct Service Professionals Appreciation Week, we want to recognize and celebrate the dedication, compassion, and expertise they bring to their work.

Although this week recognizes DSPs, we must not forget that SDEs (Self-Direction Employees) provide the same essential supports for individuals who self-direct their supports and services. DSPs and SDEs are the same in the direct support services they provide to individuals. The difference is primarily in how the employee is hired or managed, rather than in the nature of the support they deliver.

DSPs and SDEs provide support that helps people live, work, learn, and participate in their communities. This week is an opportunity to say thank you to the thousands of DSPs and SDEs whose work strengthens individuals, families, and communities. 

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Holidays and Important Dates

Leveling the Field: Accessible World Cup Experiences for All New Jersey Fans

World Cup 2026 is coming! The games start on June 11 and run through July 19. It takes place every four years, and for soccer fans, the World Cup is always a big deal. This year, the World Cup is an especially big deal for fans in the New York/New Jersey area because New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium will be hosting eight matches, including the much-anticipated final game on Sunday, July 19. 

For fans in Central and Southern New Jersey, Philadelphia is hosting six matches at Lincoln Financial Field. With games fourteen games being played in or near the State, fans across New Jersey truly have lots of reason to be excited during World Cup 2026.

So no one is left out of the excitement, we put together this guide to help fans with disabilities in New Jersey get the most out of their World Cup 2026 experience. 

NOTE: This list will grow as the games get closer. If you have a recommendation to share with the community, please email laura.warne@rutgers.edu. It is being compiled as a helpful guide only, and we encourage you to independently verify all information.