How can Schools and Students volunteer?

Student Volunteers can make sure the Disability Unite Festival and Parade is inclusive, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone. Schools are essential in building a community where everyone is welcome. During the parade, They help ensure that people with disabilities have the support they need throughout the event. Student Volunteers provide guidance, assist with navigating the space, offer accommodations like seating support, and direct participants to accessible pathways, restrooms, and resources. Their role is to uphold the spirit of disability pride by making sure no one is left out of the celebration.

What are the Different Accessibility Roles?

• Access Guides: Assist attendees with directions, finding seating, and navigating between Madison Square Park, the parade route, and Union Square.

• ASL/Language Support Volunteers: Provide communication access through sign language, interpretation, or multilingual support

• Seating & Rest Area Volunteers: Help manage accessible seating and rest areas for attendees who need breaks.

• Mobility Support Volunteers: Direct participants to ramps, accessible pathways, and help ensure parade route accessibility.

• Access Monitors: Watch for barriers and report/resolve accessibility issues during the event.
  
  

Event Timeline

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Madison Square Park (Line-Up & Gathering)

• Access Guides – Welcome attendees, provide directions, and assist with finding blocks. 

• Access Info Table Volunteers – Hand out accessibility maps and answer questions.

• Mobility Support Volunteers – Assist participants with mobility needs and direct Access-A-Ride drop-offs.
  
  

11:00 AM | Parade Kickoff
Route: Madison Square Park → Broadway → Union Square

• Access Guides – Support navigation along the parade route.

• Mobility Support Volunteers – Ensure accessible pathways stay clear.

• Access Monitors – Watch for barriers and resolve issues quickly.
  
  

12:00 PM | Community Gathering at Union Square Park

• Seating & Rest Area Volunteers – Manage accessible seating, distribute water if needed, and provide check-ins.

• ASL/Language Support Volunteers – Assist with communication access for activities.

• Access Guides – Support attendee movement between activities and rest areas.
  
  

12:30 PM | Remarks & Spotlights

• ASL/Language Support Volunteers – Provide access during speeches and announcements.

• Access Monitors – Stay alert to accessibility needs near the stage and gathering space.
  
  

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Performances at Union Square

• Seating & Rest Area Volunteers – Continue to assist with seating/rest areas.

• Access Guides – Direct attendees between activities, exits, and restrooms.

• Access Monitors – Ensure spaces remain inclusive and accessible.