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Austin ADA Partnership

The goals of the Spirit of ADA Torch Relay are to:

Reinforce support for the goals of the ADA and IDEA by renewing America's commitment to equality of opportunity full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency for all people with disabilities; Bring attention to the achievements and contributions of children and adults with disabilities; Increase relationships partnerships, and coalitions between people with disabilities, their family members and friends, and the broader communities where they live; Highlight the importance of continuing on the path to building accessible inclusive and integrated communities where children and adults with disabilities have the same opportunities and choices that are often taken for granted by people in the broader society

A Unique Torch Relay

This is not a typical Olympic-style torch relay. We do not have to convey the torch hand-to-hand between cities to realize our goals. It is better to envision The Spirit of ADA Torch Relay as a city to city relay that travels the entire nation to spread important messages and to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the ADA. At each stop there will be opportunities for each city to apply its own unique style for their Relay day. It may follow the format suggested below, or it may have variations. It's up to each city's local organizers to provide a plan that will raise awareness and involve their entire community.

The Spirit of ADA Renew the Pledge Campaign marks the 10th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the 25th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and a call for individuals, communities, and leaders to renew their commitment to an America that works for everyone.

If you have already joined the American Association of People with Disabilities, (AAPD),

AAPD currently has 12,000 members, can WE double that by the end of the Spirit of ADA Campaign, www.spiritofada.org , I think so.