Disability Rights Arkansas

10/15/2026

What if a playground could make room for every kind of adventure?

We’re highlighting Mt. Hebron Park in Rogers, home to an incredible inclusive playground designed to give children of different ages and abilities more ways to play together. With colorful, interconnected ramp-accessible play structures, Rogers is showing how accessibility and big-time fun can go hand in hand.

From sensory tunnels and interactive learning panels to inclusive merry-go-rounds, spinners, adaptive swings, and a zipline-style ride, there are so many ways for kids to move, explore, and find their next favorite activity. The playground even features separate play zones for younger children and older kids, plus colorful shade structures to help families stay comfortable while they play.

And the fun doesn't stop at the playground! The adjacent splash pad was designed with inclusion in mind, too, featuring wheelchair-accessible routes through the water and interactive features at different heights so more children can join in.

We love seeing the City of Rogers invest in recreation that considers the needs of its entire community. Mt. Hebron Park is a reminder that when accessibility is part of the plan from the beginning, more children get the chance to experience the joy, independence, and connection that play brings.

10/14/2026

Early voting begins this coming Monday! If you have some extra time or an off-day between then and Nov 3, use it wisely and head to the polls!

10/13/2026

We're not using AI to promote our fundraiser, but we sure could use your impact! Join us on November 10 at the inaugural Advocacy & Impact Luncheon to raise funds for the important work DRA advocates and attorneys are doing across the state of Arkansas. Get your ticket or sponsor the event here: https://disability-rights-arkansas-inc.monkeypod.io/give/advocacy-impact-luncheon

10/10/2026

We're officially a month out from our Advocacy & Impact Fundraiser Luncheon and we are looking for a Champion of Change!

As the Presenting Sponsor, you will receive premier recognition throughout the event including acknowledgment from the podium, a reserved table for eight guests with lunch included, a full-page advertisement in the event program, prominent recognition on event signage and the event website, and a featured social media spotlight highlighting your commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Check out our website or click on this link to find out more information on how to become a sponsor at any level or purchasing a ticket!

10/09/2026

Playgrounds are about so much more than play. They’re about independence and getting to be part of the fun.

We’re highlighting John Bell, Jr. Park in Fort Smith, home to the city’s first inclusive playground, where accessibility was part of the plan from the beginning.

With smooth, mobility-friendly rubber surfacing, ramps and transfer platforms, and a covered play area, the playground creates more opportunities for children with disabilities to access play equipment and enjoy time alongside their peers. The park also features soccer fields and walking paths, making it a place for families to gather, play, and connect.

And the name carries a special meaning. John Bell, Jr. was a beloved Fort Smith artist and a passionate disability rights advocate who worked to improve wheelchair access in public spaces. Naming this park in his honor is a fitting tribute to someone who understood that accessibility opens doors to fuller participation in community life.

We’re grateful to the City of Fort Smith for investing in inclusive recreation and carrying forward a legacy of accessibility. Every child deserves more than a place to watch others play; they deserve the opportunity to join in.

10/07/2026

We are so proud of our Legal Director, Thomas Nichols, for being recognized by Arkansas Access to Justice as the recipient of the Outstanding Pro Bono Service Lawyer - Medium Firm award! Thomas, congratulations and thank you for all you do!

10/06/2026

Needing more information? Check out the UADA Voter Education page! You'll be able to find how the popular name and ballot title will appear on your ballot, answers to basic questions about each ballot issue, reasons why people may support or oppose the proposals, and a worksheet to record your voting plans!

The Cooperative Extension Service in Arkansas provides voters with neutral, research-based information on all statewide ballot proposals.

10/06/2026

The election is 4 weeks from today — do you know what's on the ballot? Here's some basic information about each issue and what supporters and opponents are saying:

10/05/2026

Guess what, Arkansas? You now have until Monday, October 5th at 5pm to become a registered voter in your county! Visit the link below to find more information regarding registering to vote in the upcoming midterm elections!

https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/elections/voter-information/voter-registration-information