Access Week 2025

From October 14 through October 19, the Ridgewood Access Committee will proudly host our annual Access Week throughout the Village of Ridgewood! This weeklong series of events (outlined below) will highlight the importance of disability awareness while celebrating the inclusivity, spirit and strength of our community. 

We invite you to mark your calendars, join us and help spread the word so that together we can make this year’s Access Week the best yet! 

• PULL OVER PROPERLY: Tuesday, October 14, 4:00 to 5:00 pm @ Graydon Pool Parking Lot
  Spec Wired, the Ridgewood Police Department and Access Ridgewood are coming together to offer a program designed to educate drivers with developmental disabilities about proper behavior during a traffic stop. 
  
  
• SENIOR PROGRAM: Thursday, October 16, 10:30 am to 12:00 pm @ Village Hall Youth Lounge
  This community gathering for connection and well-being will be led by Elise Merhige, certified health coach and founder of IntentionThink. Complimentary refreshments will be provided by Age Friendly Ridgewood. 
  
  
• SENSORY-FRIENDLY DINNER: Thursday, October 16, 5:00 to 8:00 pm @ Steel Wheel Tavern
  Eat out with family and friends in a lower-sensory, judgment-free atmosphere. Food and checks will be expedited, and activities will be provided to keep kids and others entertained during waiting periods. Registration is required.
  
  
• AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE 101: Friday, October 17, 4:00 to 5:00 pm @ Ridgewood Public Library Auditorium
  Thyson T . Halley will provide an interactive overview of ASL, from teaching emergency and basic conversation signs to exploring the rich history of deaf culture. 
  
  
• ACCESS TALENT & FASHION SHOW: Saturday, October 18, 11:30 am to 2:00 pm, Ridgewood Public Library Auditorium
  Celebrate individuals of all abilities as they display their talents, ambitions and individuality! Refreshments will be served in the Village Hall courtyard immediately following the show.
  
  
• INTERFAITH DISCUSSION: Sunday, October 19, 2:00 to 3:00 pm, Ridgewood Public Library Auditorium
  Families, friends and individuals from all walks of life are invited to join leaders from Ridgewood's Interfaith Committee for an informal discussion about the role of faith in the lives of people with disabilities. 

To ensure that all of these wonderful programs and events take place, we are seeking sponsors, volunteers and participants. If you are interested in being a part of Ridgewood’s Access Week, please reach out at access@ridgewoodnj.net. 

We look forward to celebrating a terrific week with you. Thank you in advance for your support and participation!