Celebrating 35 Years of the ADA: Advancing Access, Elevating Lives
This July marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark civil rights law that has transformed the lives of millions of Americans. Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation, and access to public and private spaces.
The ADA was the result of decades of advocacy by people with disabilities and their allies who fought for equal rights and full participation in society. Its passage marked a turning point in how we define inclusion and access, shifting from an individual challenge to a collective responsibility.
Rooted in the same spirit as the ADA, Home Builders Foundation removes barriers for individuals living with disabilities by making homes safer and more accessible. These modifications, such as ramps, wider doorways, and bathroom updates, help people feel safe at home and navigate their communities with confidence, on their own terms. Thanks to the support of our donors, volunteers, and partners, this vision of greater access becomes a reality for more HBF clients every day.
Join the Celebration: ADA 35th Anniversary Events in Denver
Several events across Denver are recognizing this important milestone. Here are a few ways to get involved:
- Celebration of the ADA Anniversary Hosted by the Mayor’s Office
- Date: Friday, July 18
- Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Location: Access Gallery, 909 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO
- Details: Hosted by the Denver Mayor’s Office and Access Gallery, this community gathering will include artwork, performances, and conversations about accessibility in our city. ASL interpretation provided.
Register here ›
- Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC) Access Awards
- Date: Thursday, July 25
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Details available upon registration
- Details: CCDC’s annual Access Awards honor individuals and organizations advancing accessibility and disability rights across Colorado. This year’s celebration reflects on progress since the ADA and the work still to be done.
Learn more ›
- Disability Pride Celebration
- Date: Sunday, July 27
- Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Location: Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock Street, Denver, CO
- Details: Stop by the Museum’s outdoor forecourt from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to enjoy a hands-on activity as the Clyfford Still Museum celebrates the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! Join educator Sarah Childers for a fun activity. Participants will use everyday materials to create a homemade balloon rocket. These drop-in activities are for all ages and abilities. American Sign Language interpreters will be available. This activity is free, and no registration is required.
Learn more ›
- Regional Transportation District (RTD)’s 35 Years of Progress: ADA Past, Present, and Future Event
- Date: Friday, August 1
- Time: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Location: Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown-Convention Center, 550 15th Street, Denver, CO
- Details: This full-day celebration will highlight the history and ongoing impact of the ADA with an immersive exhibit, panel discussion, and the unveiling of a special ADA-themed bus design. It’s a chance to honor the disability community’s advocacy and to look ahead toward a more accessible future for public transit.
Learn more ›
This blog will be updated as more events are confirmed throughout the month.
Continuing the Work of Access and Inclusion
The ADA laid a powerful foundation for access and inclusion, but there’s still more to be done. At Home Builders Foundation, we remain committed to this shared vision by creating safe, accessible spaces where individuals with disabilities can live independently and with dignity.
Thank you for being part of our crew and for supporting a future where everyone can thrive at home and beyond. Whether you volunteer your time, refer someone in need of a project, or make a donation, your involvement helps make safe, accessible homes possible.
Explore ways to take action: