Access 2 Independence

06/07/2026

Ninja Camp 2026

Today, our students learned valuable lessons about self-advocacy, bullying prevention, peer pressure, situational awareness, and personal safety. They also practiced practical self-defense skills, including basic punches, kicks, blocks, escapes from grabs, and using a strong voice to get away from danger and seek help.

The highlight of the day was our board-breaking ceremony, where every participant had the opportunity to demonstrate their courage, determination, and confidence.

At Access 2 Independence, we believe that everyone can be a ninja. No matter your ability level, disability, diagnosis, challenge, or exceptionality, you are capable of learning, growing, and accomplishing amazing things. Today, these students proved that strength comes in many forms, and we couldn’t be more proud of them.

A special thank you to our incredible volunteers, supportive parents, and Cascade Hills Church for allowing us to use their Student Building and helping make this event possible.

Remember: Being a ninja isn’t about being the strongest person in the room. It’s about having the courage to keep showing up, keep learning, and keep believing in yourself.

No matter who you are or what challenges you face, you can be a ninja. 💪🥋❤️

06/02/2026

Just a few days left to get your tickets for the A2i Road to Independence at Synovus Park on June 14th! Come cheer on the Columbus Clingstones and the A2i youth program as they play the Pensacola Blue Wahoos. Tickets are on the 1st base line and include all you can eat buffet.

https://www.gofevo.com/event/Access22?r=7

05/28/2026

As we prepare for an exciting summer ahead, Access2Independence recently hosted our Culminating Meeting for the Bridging the Gap (BTG) program! Families and participants gathered together to review all important camp information, receive packets with schedules, packing lists, recommended apps, and other must-know details to help everyone feel prepared and confident for camp.

We were also honored to welcome Birdie Hicks from Columbus Fire & Rescue, who presented the Yellow Dot Program and guided each BTG participant in creating their own Yellow Dot emergency information folder to take to camp and continue using at home.

The Yellow Dot Program is a simple but powerful safety initiative designed to help first responders quickly access important medical and emergency contact information during an emergency. Participants keep a completed medical information form in their vehicle or home, marked with a yellow dot decal, allowing emergency personnel to provide faster and more informed care when every second matters. We encourage all community members to learn more about this life-saving program by contacting their local fire and rescue department.

If your school, community group, organization, or agency would like to coordinate a Yellow Dot event or presentation, please contact Jennifer Lang at mailto:[email protected].

A special thank you again to Columbus Fire & Rescue for their continued partnership and commitment to supporting our youth and community. We also want to sincerely thank Denise Fox from Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency for attending the event, showing support for our BTG participants, and helping families clarify important camp information and details.

At Access2Independence, we believe preparation, safety, independence, and community partnerships create opportunities for success — and we are proud to continue building those opportunities together.

05/25/2026

A2i wants to show thanks to all service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice and to all the Gold Star Families who honor their loved ones today.

05/21/2026

Today, Access 2 Independence was proud to deliver a grocery donation to our amazing partners at The Food Mill Shared Kitchen as a thank you for their support and partnership during our recent CIL Connect Day event. Their team helped create an unforgettable experience for the students we serve, and we are grateful for all they do for our community.

The Food Mill Shared Kitchen does so much more than provide meals - they use donated groceries to cook for the community and help feed the homeless population throughout Columbus. They are always accepting donations and can use a wide variety of grocery items to continue supporting those in need.

We want to encourage our community to join us in giving back. Every donation, big or small, can make a difference.

If you would like to donate:
1. You can drop food donations directly at The Food Mill Shared Kitchen
2. You can also contact Access 2 Independence and we will help coordinate your donation

We are happy to:
✔ Accept donations at our office
✔ Deliver donations to The Food Mill
✔ Arrange pickup for larger donations

Community partnerships and support are what make opportunities like CIL Connect Day possible. Together, we can continue making a positive impact and helping our neighbors in need.

To arrange a donation or pickup, contact Access 2 Independence today!

05/20/2026

Spots are filling up fast! Use the QR code to lock in your spot for this fun and needed camp!

05/19/2026

Thank you to Columbus Fire for hosting our P2P students for the “A day in the Life of a Firefighter”. Our students will navigate the Obstacle Course, have a gear tour, Tool vs. Toy, Fire Extinguisher Class, fire hose demonstration and a meet and greet with Firefighters and Paramedics.

01/17/2026

10/23/2025

10/21/2025

Autism Hope Center is looking for runners! Let get out there and Light up the Valley! Medals to top placers!