The dictionary defines a disability as “an inability to perform some or all of the tasks of daily life.” And it is those very tasks, which many people may take for granted on daily basis, which can be challenged at the College of Staten Island’s Disability Awareness Day this Thursday, April 3, 2003.

The day is filled with hands-on and interactive disability sensitivity workshops in the college’s Center for the Arts that allow everyone to learn that overcoming a dictionary-defined disability actually requires great ability, and a mastery of a challenging new skill set, such as reading Braille, conversing in sign language, or maneuvering a wheelchair. Exhibitors with have informative booths set up in the building’s Atrium.

The workshops will be presented from 10:15 – 2 p.m. in room 202 and will raise your awareness regarding deafness, disability parking, and the learning-disabled, as well as blindness and wheelchair sensitivity.

In addition to the exhibits and workshops, Alvin Law will present “Never Say I Can’t,” from 2 – 3:30 p.m. in the Recital Hall. Law, who was born without arms, is a noted motivational speaker who will discuss the power of a positive attitude. His talk is sponsored by the college’s Program Development Committee.

WHAT:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Awareness Day at CSI:Creating Success through Independence

WHEN:
Thursday, April 3, 2003; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

WHERE:
College of Staten Island, Center for the Arts (1P)
2800 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island NY 10314

Exhibitors include: the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities; VESID (Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities); C-Tech (technology for the visually impaired); Concepts of Independence; Multiple Sclerosis Society; Seymour Joseph Institute; New York Commission on Human Rights; and Freedom Box.

The day’s events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. The event is sponsored by the College of Staten Island Office of Disability Services. For more information regarding the event contact Irene Mucciariello at 718-982-2176.

If you plan to attend or send a representative, contact Ken Bach at 718-982-2328.