USI Disability Resources and the Evansville Regional Airport partner to launch new accessibility programs

Community partners convened on November 15 with representatives of the University of Southern Indiana Disability Resources Office to unveil and celebrate the launch of three new accessibility resources and programs available to travelers of the Evansville Regional Airport (EVV).

“University of Southern Indiana Disability Resources has been a vital resource for our recent #ForEVVeryone accessibility launch,” said Leslie Fella, Director of Marketing and Air Service at EVV.

EVV executives acknowledged accessibility to the airport and to the community is about much more than the physical improvements made to the airport. To meet the needs of all travelers, EVV’s desire was to build upon those improvements by providing more assistance to allow everyone to travel easily, safely and comfortably. This inspired the For EVVeryone launch, which includes the following new additions:

• New For EVVeryone webpage, which details the available programs and services for travelers.
• A new accessibility widget that instantly transforms the EVV website into a user-friendly experience for all. Visitors need to look for the accessibility icon on the bottom left of each page.
• Collection of programs —
  • Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Scheme is geared toward travelers with hidden disabilities, such as autism, PTSD, hearing loss and more.
  • Airport therapy dogs in partnership with Therapy Dogs International (TDI)
  • Sensory kits in partnership with Autism Evansville and CAMSE Kit are designed to bring comfort and calm to travelers.

It is important to get the word out about these programs, says Michelle Kirk, Manager of Disability Resources at USI, especially during the holiday season, which is one of the busiest travel times of the year. These programs will help anyone in need have the most inclusive experience possible, she adds.

“To partner with the Evansville Regional Airport in this way has given USI Disability Resources a pipeline to potential students who may not be aware of our office. We offer academic accommodations and resources for eligible students at the University to gain equal access,” says Kirk. “This work with EVV also helps spread the word about valuable accessibility programs at the airport that can be utilized by all who need them.”

To learn more about USI Disability Resources, visit the department website or call 812-464-1961. To find all the details on the For EVVeryone programs and services, visit flyevv.com/forevveryone.