According to North Texas Disability Chamber’s President And CEO Dylan M. Rafaty,
“In today’s world, it does not adapt to the disability community but instead we must adapt to the world. The disability community is often overlooked and has faced difficult challenges. Some of these include the lack of prioritizing accessibility in physical and digital settings, promoting equity within organizations and communities, and ensuring people with disabilities are given not just a seat at the table or boardroom but a voice.
“Since 2020, the North Texas Disability Chamber has existed because we seek to serve as regional leaders in advancing accessibility, equity and disability inclusion across 28 counties in North Texas. Our work focuses on the importance of collaborative and strategic partnerships to provide year-round, quality and accessible community education events and programs in the region.
“Since its inception, North Texas Giving Day has provided an abundance of philanthropic opportunities to amplify local nonprofits in North Texas. We are thrilled to participate for the very first time and look forward to sharing more about our work to support people with disabilities, their families, our allies, and organizations of all types and sizes.
“To date, the North Texas Disability Chamber has hosted over 20 community education events [including its Inaugural DEIA Summitt this past June], prioritized a board-approved budget to ensure accessibility at our events, increased visibility and participation among persons with disabilities, formalized over 40 new corporate and nonprofit partners and helped develop or support new programs within organizations and communities.
“Our work is credited to many individuals and organizations who collectively share the same vision, mission and values. It is why we felt compelled to highlight what some of our supporters say about the North Texas Disability Chamber.
“’NTXDC brings together people and organizations that would otherwise not know about each other. The awareness and resources we gain from connecting help us all make progress toward that.’ – Meryl K. Evans, CEO of meryl.net
“’Serving as an executive board member of the North Texas Disability Chamber in the Southern Dallas sector has been transformative. The opportunities for connections and collaborations have allowed me to advocate for impactful changes and support by bringing resources to marginalized communities represented in my intersectionality. As a person with a disability, I am proud to contribute to an organization that champions equity and empowers individuals just like me, drives meaningful progress, and creates a more inclusive future.’ – Tiffani Martin, Founder And CEO of VisioTech
“’The North Texas Disability Chamber has been an ally and a guide as we look to expand our inclusion efforts. We are the benefactor of Dylan’s tireless work on behalf of the disability community. There is still much to do, but his impact and influence are profoundly felt by all who know him.’ – Latosha Herron Bruff, SVP of Diversity, Inclusion And Community Engagement, Dallas Regional Chamber
“We are incredibly grateful for the many who support and validate that NTXDC is building momentum towards a more accessible, equitable, and inclusive North Texas!”
* Photo credit: David Downs ** Graphic/photo provided by North Texas Disability Chamber *** Photo credit: Ronnie Blea
In 15 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $566 million into the North Texas community. In 2023, more than $63.9 million was raised through 97,000 donors benefiting 3,249 area nonprofits.
On Thursday, September 19, support North Texas Disability Chamber by clicking here and spreading the word. #NorthTexasGivingDay2024