United Spinal Association is the new content provider for the Abilities Expo show series, aimed at people and families living with disabilities.
In a Feb. 12 announcement, Abilities Expo said the new partnership will open the door for United Spinal “to spearhead the on-site programming for the expos.”
Vincenzo Piscopo, President/CEO of United Spinal, said in the announcement, “We’re pleased to have the opportunity to coordinate the Abilities Expo’s programming. We look forward to continuing the Expo’s long tradition of providing diverse workshops and presentations to meet the needs of its hundreds of thousands of attendees with disabilities, their friends and families, and service providers.”
The Abilities Expo will have seven shows in 2024, starting with the event in its hometown, March 15-17 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Each Abilities Expo features an exhibit hall of assistive technology, plus educational presentations and demonstrations. Previous events have included demonstrations and performances from wheelchair dancers, wheelchair athletes, and service dogs and their humans.
“Presented by local organizations, these demos offer an immersive experience as well as opportunities to learn how to pursue newfound interests year-round,” the announcement said. “The info-packed workshop series, led by experts in their fields, feature topics relevant to the disability community like accessible travel, home design, financial planning, assistive technology, how to source funds, and more.”
United Spinal is taking over the on-site programming for Sarah Galbraith Laucks, the Education & Events Director who is departing the Abilities Expo team.
Lew Shomer, Abilities Expo Chairman, said in the announcement, “We are thrilled to welcome United Spinal Association to the Abilities Expo family. Their proven track record of empowering individuals with disabilities aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing a platform for innovation, education and connection. We are confident that this collaboration will continue to enhance the overall experience for our attendees.”
United Spinal, headquartered in Kew Gardens, N.Y., describes itself as representing the 5.5 million people in the United States who use wheelchairs. The organization traces its roots “to the paralyzed World War II vets who came home to an inaccessible nation and made it their new mission to create a fully inclusive society.”
United Spinal’s mission is “a world where people with SCI/D [spinal cord injuries/disorders] and all wheelchair users can realize their full potential and live life at its fullest.”