Community Corner
Access Brookline: June 2023 News & Events
A monthly selection of accessibility-related news, events, and information from the Brookline Commission on Disability (BCOD)
Did you know?
• The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) offers sensory-friendly concerts designed for music lovers of all ages. During the special performances, “relaxed house rules allow for more audience movement and foster a judgment-free environment,” according to the BSO. While the music may be familiar, the modified shows feature dim lighting, sound adjustments, and signals to prepare visitors for what to expect next. Live concert feeds are available for anyone who needs to leave the main hall, and the automatic flush function is disabled in all restrooms.
• June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month! More than 55 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association offers many ways for you to get involved and raise awareness – not just in June, but all year round. To learn how to Go Purple, Share your Story, or Take Action, check out the resources at their dedicated Awareness Month site. Help make Alzheimer’s a national priority and create widespread awareness of this devastating disease.
• June is also National Safety Month! The National Safety Council (NSC) is America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate. They focus on eliminating the leading causes of preventable injuries and deaths in the workplace, the home, and in the community. Check out their resources, including in-person and online first aid training – for the home and community.
Find out what's happening in Brooklinewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Spotlight Organization
• Special Olympics Massachusetts is committed to providing year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This year, their Summer Games will be held June 9-11 at the Harvard University Athletic Complex. The event is free to attend including access to all events. The tournament is run rain or shine, and many events are indoors and offer shade to spectators. For details, check out the Event Guide and get out and support these wonderful athletes!
News & Events
• June 7, Zoom webinar, 1:00-2:00 PM: The Mass Office on Disability (MOD) offers a program on Service Animals in Public Places. There is a lot of misinformation about service animals and emotional support animals, such as where they are allowed to go, what questions can be asked about them, and what to do if they are not behaving well. This Quarterly Tea program aims to describe the rights and obligations of service animal users in public places, such as restaurants, stores, and libraries.
Find out what's happening in Brooklinewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
• June 10, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 1255 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA 02135: The Universal Access Program of the Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) holds its annual Adaptive Recreation Fair. Enjoy a free, fun-filled day celebrating accessible outdoor recreation in Massachusetts state parks. Please pre-register, especially if you would like to go cycling or try other adaptive equipment. You can pre-register online, or by calling Universal Access at (857) 319-2168.
Join Us!
BCOD meets monthly, typically on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm. The public is always welcome! Check the town calendar 48 hours in advance to see the agenda and info on how to participate: www.brooklinema.gov/calendar.aspx.
