Disability Network Eastern Michigan

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Get out on the water with DNEM this summer! 🛶

Join us for a one-hour adaptive kayaking lesson on June 24, 2026 at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston.

This program is designed for individuals with disabilities ages 8 and older and provides a safe, supportive introduction to kayaking. Adaptive equipment, modifications, and life jackets are provided. Choose a one-hour session between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Kayaks have a maximum weight capacity of 225 pounds. A $10 donation is required to reserve a spot. If that creates a barrier, please contact [email protected].

This program is open only to residents of DNEM’s service counties: Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair, Lapeer, Sanilac, Tuscola, and Huron.

Register here: https://bit.ly/4uwcTUp

Join us for a day of adaptive outdoor recreation at DiversAbility Day - Royal Oak.

📅 Thursday, June 18, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
📍 Normandy Oaks County Park

Try a variety of adaptive recreation activities, including hiking, archery, cycling, crafts, and a golf demo. A hot dog picnic lunch will also be provided.

This event is a great opportunity to explore new activities, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others in the community.

Consumers Energy is the presenting sponsor of our event. Their partnership is greatly appreciated! Consumers Energy

🔗 Register here: https://bit.ly/4wt3wq9

💻 Looking for a fun way to connect from home? Join us for a Virtual Games and Social Hour. Connect online and share some laughs while playing games from the comfort of home. Family and friends are welcome too!

📅June 9, 2026
🕕 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
📍 Virtual via Zoom
A Zoom link will be emailed one week before.

🔗 Registration required: https://bit.ly/4txpQMw

☀️ Summer Hours Update ☀️

Please note that Disability Network Eastern Michigan will be closed on Fridays beginning May 22 through September 4.

Summer office hours:
🕗 Monday through Thursday
8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to continuing to serve our community throughout the summer.

At our Art from the Heart Celebration on May 7, we proudly recognized two Community Spirit Award recipients for going above and beyond to support and empower individuals with disabilities in our community.

💙 Steve Berry — Woodland Apartments, St. Clair Shores
Steve demonstrates exceptional commitment to tenant well-being by prioritizing stability, accessibility, and dignity in housing. From converting units to Section 8 housing to prevent displacement, to modifying properties for accessibility needs, Steve consistently places people before profit while fostering a strong and supportive residential community.

💙 David Parks — Thumb Area Landlord
Serving Lapeer and Tuscola counties, David has become a vital housing partner for veterans. He removes traditional barriers to housing, collaborates proactively to prevent eviction, and adapts housing options to meet accessibility needs. His work reflects a deep belief that stable housing is foundational to individual success.

Please join us in congratulating Steve and David for embodying true community spirit! 👏

Join us in celebrating Chris Sanchez, recipient of the Unsung Hero Award at our Art from the Heart Celebration on May 7! 🎉

Chris served our country, and he continues to serve his community every day. Through perseverance, dedication to his goals, and partnership with the SSVF team at Disability Network Eastern Michigan, Chris has built a path forward and continues to thrive.

We are proud to walk alongside individuals like Chris as they achieve their goals and create brighter futures. Please join us in congratulating Chris on this well-deserved recognition! 👏

Art from the Heart was a success! It was a welcoming, joyful, and meaningful event that celebrated the talents of artists with disabilities while showcasing the spirit and mission of Disability Network Eastern Michigan.

We proudly surpassed our fundraising goal, featured more artwork than ever before, and welcomed more guests than last year!

Our presenting sponsor was Consumers Energy. Thank you, artists, guests, sponsors, and staff, for an incredible evening!

🇺🇸 In observance of Memorial Day, our office will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026.

We take this time to remember and honor the heros who gave their lives in service to our country.

Our office will reopen during normal business hours on Tuesday, May 26.

Get out on the water with DNEM this summer! 🛶

Join us on June 11 in Port Huron for a one-hour adaptive kayaking lesson designed for individuals with disabilities ages 8 and older. No prior experience is needed. Adaptive equipment, modifications, and life jackets are provided for a safe and supportive experience.

Location: 40th St/Thompson Pond, Port Huron
Available time slots:
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
2:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Kayaks have a maximum weight capacity of 225 pounds. A $10 donation is required to reserve a spot. If that creates a barrier, please contact [email protected].

This program is available to residents of DNEM’s service counties: Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair, Lapeer, Sanilac, Tuscola, and Huron.

We are proud to recognize Consumers Energy and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as sponsors of our adaptive kayaking program. Their partnerships are greatly appreciated! Consumers Energy Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Register here: https://bit.ly/3OW5f6B

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