Together we can build a future where everyone has the tools to live with dignity, connection, and hope.

May 31, 2025

We hope this newsletter gives you an inside look at the work that drives us every day. Our conversations, ideas, and daily efforts are fueled by the rapid evolution of technology—and the powerful ways it can transform the lives of people living with physical disabilities. What’s remarkable is that our discussions and our work don’t just happen in the office. Sometimes, they emerge in the most unexpected places, at the most unexpected times. I recently found myself in just such a moment—an encounter that sparked meaningful reflection. I later shared the story with both our staff and board, and each time, it sparked thoughtful dialogue. I’d like to share that story with you, too.

I was in the train station waiting to go home. I had about 45 minutes to wait, so was on my phone reading. A gentleman sat next to me and worked on his laptop, and two women sat across from me. Then the gentleman shut his laptop and said, “May I ask you ladies a question?” Before anyone could say no, he said, “Do you think AI should be regulated?” “Are you afraid of AI.” One of the women sitting across from me thought for a moment and then responded.

“Yes, it should be regulated. Look at what is happening with mobile phones in schools. Now it is too late to take them away.” The woman went on to say that she was apprehensive that AI would hurt employment opportunities.

The gentleman said that he was afraid of the effect AI would have on his 5-year-old, and that was part of the reason he was asking the question. He was also concerned about the employment issue. One of the women looked at me and asked if I had any thoughts. I explained the mission of Envisioning Access. Then I said, “I see AI as a technology that can be used for good. If AI is in robots, the robot can be used to assist those living with physical disabilities in the home to assist around the house. We are looking at AI driven technology to support in learning how to interview for a job, or help with personal hygiene needs. With AI we hope in the future the robots will relieve the primary caregiver so they can spend more time with a loved one.”

Now the conversation took on a new focus. The gentleman admitted he asked ChatGPT for information and listened to lectures in the car on his way home from work. The two women agreed that assistance in caregiving was a positive use for AI. None of us disagreed that AI needed regulation. What did that look like, that was the big question. We truly were enjoying our discussion when we realized our trains we on the track and we dispersed.

The conversation has been with me for the past month.

I am interested to hear what you think about AI and regulation. Please send us an email with your thoughts. I look forward to reading them.

Disability Corner

Woman in a wheelchair on the phone at a table with a co-worker

Getty Images Awards $20,000 to Global Storytellers Reshaping Disability Representation

From St. Louis to Zimbabwe, this year’s recipients are dismantling old frameworks—and building new ones through imagery.

Getty Images, a preeminent global visual content creator and marketplace, in partnership with the National Disability Leadership Alliance (NDLA), today announced the recipients of their latest $20,000 creative grant aimed at advancing authentic representation of the disability community in professional settings.

One last game: student builds virtual reality experience for hospice patients

Class of 2025 student Rob Martin joined the Tandem VR™ team, a concept invented by Olivia McAnirlin, Virtual Reality and Nature Lab co-director at Clemson, which helps people connect to past experiences and complete “bucket lists” with their loved ones. As part of this project, local hospice care patients were asked what they would want the chance to experience one more time before they pass.
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Implications of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" on the U.S. Disability Community

The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA), recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, introduces significant changes to federal programs, notably Medicaid and other safety net services. These changes are poised to have profound effects on individuals with disabilities, potentially undermining their access to essential healthcare, housing, education, and support services.

Read More

Last day to Shop for a Cause!

Today is the LAST DAY to support Envisioning Access through the Star Market GIVE BACK WHERE IT COUNTS Reusable Bag Program

Star Market, 1065 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston

Until the end of May, whenever a $3.00 GIVE BACK WHERE IT COUNTS Reusable Bag is purchased at that store, $1 will be donated to Envisioning Access. This is a great and easy way to broaden awareness about our work and help raise money for organization!

Can't make it to that specific store by the end of today? You can still support Envisioning Access! Get your bag at any Star Market Store and follow the instructions on the tag to direct your gift to us.

Give where it counts bag with the donation tag

Save the Date for the Envisioning Access Golf Classic!

Golf course in the Fall with Fall Foliage

Planning is in "full swing" for our very first golf tournament; Thursday, October 2, 2025!

Join us for an unforgettable day of golf, networking, and philanthropy at the prestigious Pinehills Golf Course in Plymouth, MA. This event is your chance to connect with passionate advocates, innovators, and community leaders, all united by a shared vision of enhancing accessibility and fostering innovation in the disability space.

Why Attend?

This event is more than a golf tournament—it’s a unique opportunity to expand your network, engage with like-minded individuals, and directly contribute to projects that make the world more accessible for all. All wrapped up in one fun-filled day!

Register today and join us for an unforgettable day!

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