We're Turning 50!
Greetings, and Happy 2026!
This year marks a major milestone for Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston: our 50th anniversary. Since our founding in 1976, we have remained grounded in the Independent Living philosophy, working alongside people with disabilities to help build communities where access, choice, and dignity are not optional, but expected.
Throughout 2026, we will be honoring five decades of advocacy, service, and community connection while also looking toward the future of independent living in our region. We are planning a year-long series of events and opportunities to connect, reflect, and celebrate together. More details will be shared soon, and we hope you will join us in marking this special anniversary year.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our work and of the disability community.
Alex Gossage
Executive Director
A Year-long Celebration
DNWML is proud to have served the disability community for 50 years. Celebrate all year with us at one of our events, we’ll be sharing more details for each event throughout the year so stay connected with us—follow us on social and subscribe to our newsletter.
Interested in sponsoring one of these events? Checkout our sponsorship page.
January 23, 2026 | 50 Years of Impact Kick Off —This open house event launches our 50 Years of Impact series of events. Meet our staff and board members, get a tour of our space and learn about all the amazing work we’re doing! Registration required.
February 24, 2026 | Hot Wings & Things Challenge — Calling all spice-loving champions! It’s time to heat up your taste buds and support a great cause with a hot wings challenge. Bring your A-game and see who can handle the heat as we chow down on progressively spicier wings. It’s a daring, delicious, and downright hilarious way to raise money for DNWML programming!
March 17 & 18, 2026 | Donuts with the Director — Join DNWML Executive Director, Alex Gossage for donuts, coffee and connection! We’re inviting community members, local businesses and organizations to meet our staff, learn about all things DNWML and how you can get involved. March 17 at our Washtenaw county office and March 18 at our Monroe county office.
April 8 & 22, 2026 | Emerging Voices Digital Media for Change — We’ll help young people with disabilities be empowered to share their stories, and advocate for the changes they want to see in the world. Participants will learn about Disability history, how creative works can inspire change and how to use digital tools like Canva and social media to craft and amplify your message. Contact Eliot: eliot@dnwml.org
May 7, 2026 | Spring Arts Expo — Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston Spring Arts Expo, where we bring together a dynamic blend of visual art, literature, theatre, and dance in one vibrant celebration of creativity. Come be part of this interactive and inclusive experience that celebrates the richness of the arts in all forms. Contact claire@dnwml.org
June 10, 2026 | 50 Years of Impact History Project Launch — DNWML has a rich history and we’ve created a beautiful history project to outline important milestones. Learn about how we were founded in 1976, community impacts we’ve made, transitions we’ve gone through and where we are today in 2026. Attendees will get to meet our staff, tour our Washtenaw office and learn about services.
July 11 & 25, 2026 | ADA Celebration — Celebrate the 36th anniversary of the passing of the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) with us at our annual celebrations. More details to come.
August 20, 2026 | Speed Friending — Let’s build connections! This event for people with disabilities ages 18+ is a way to make new friendships in a fun and low-pressure way. Like speed dating but completely platonic, this is a relaxed way to meet other adults with disabilities and spark real connections! Contact: Krystina@dnwml.org
September 18, 2026 | Stroll & Roll — Looking to get out into nature and meet some friends along the way? Join us for an outdoor walk to soak up the great outdoors and meet new friends!
October 05, 2026 | The Resume Resurrection & Interview Crypt — Is your job search feeling like a ghost town? Don’t let your application fall into the Resume Black Hole! Step inside the Career Crypt, where experts from many organizations are waiting to help you resurrect your ‘dead’ resume. Navigate through our Interview Arena to face your fears of scary interview questions or visit our Talisman Station for some haunting swag. We’ll help you banish those haunting typos and ensure you aren’t just another ‘phantom’ candidate. It’s time to stop ghosting your future and start getting hired!
November 14, 2026 | Harvest Gathering — Celebrate community with DNWML at our Harvest Gathering! Enjoy a welcoming luncheon, engaging conversations, and entertainment. This year, we’re excited to debut our Community Partner Award and Volunteer of the Year Award, recognizing those who make a lasting impact—honored live at the event.
December 11, 2026 | Access for All Giving Celebration — For 50 years, donors have been at the heart of DNWML’s work. This special celebration honors the legacy you’ve helped build while inviting you to be part of shaping the next 50 years of access, advocacy, and community impact.