←   Schedule Panel

Disability: Inclusion Is Not Extra, It’s Essential!

Tuesday, June 16 2026

4:30 PM - 5:45 PM

Credits pending

Register now

Park equity starts with disability-inclusion. Every trail, playground, and greenspace we touch should make all neighbors feel safe, seen, and welcome. However, many older parks still lack accessibility, and newer ones often only meet basic ADA requirements. That is why Houston Parks Board recently completed the Disability-Inclusive Parks, Trails, and Playgrounds Best Practices Guide.

This collaborative guide goes beyond ADA compliance to promote truly inclusive outdoor spaces for people of all abilities for a healthier and more resilient region.  It aims to fulfill the need for broader, more meaningful inclusivity that addresses the needs of people with a wide variety of disabilities, including physical, cognitive, developmental, and sensory disabilities.

Attendees will hear from key contributors and advocates who shaped the guide.  Panelists include advocates with lived experience, an adaptive recreation expert, and a representative from the consulting team.


Speakers

Lisa Graiff
Senior Project Manager
Houston Parks Board
Michelle Colvard

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Angel Ponce
Director
City of Houston Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities
Peggy Turner
Athletics Community Liaison & Adapted Sports and Recreation Community Programs Coordinator
TIRR Memorial Hermann