City Announces Explore Without Limits Pass to Recognize Disability Pride Month

The City of Toledo is celebrating Disability Pride Month in July with the launch of the Explore Without Limits Pass, a free digital pass designed to help residents discover accessible parks, splash pads, playgrounds and adaptive recreation opportunities across the City.

The pass highlights inclusive destinations including Jamie Farr Park splash pad, Schneider Park soccer complex, and Navarre Park and Ottawa Park inclusive playgrounds, along with accessible trails, pools and other recreation spaces designed for visitors of all abilities.

The launch comes as the City highlighted accessible recreation at recent birthday celebration at the Jamie Farr splash pad for Molly Henry.

Molly Henry celebrated her birthday at the Jamie Farr splash pad, a place she said reflects something she has always loved, being in the water and spending time with friends.

What began as a simple wish during a conversation with her service and support specialist turned into a coordinated effort between City staff and community partners to make the experience possible for someone who uses an electric wheelchair.

The idea first came up during a home visit when Henry mentioned wanting to go to a splash pad but explained the challenges involved, including transporting an electric wheelchair, a lift and other mobility equipment.

With support from the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Director Lori Balogh said staff used a portable changing station with a built-in lift, allowing individuals using electric wheelchairs to safely transfer into a shower or transit chair and access the splash pad.

The City has a water wheelchair available at the Jamie Farr splash pad, and all city pools are equipped with lifts to support safe access and use.

"We hope to see many more celebrations like Molly's as we work to make our spaces more accessible and inclusive," Commissioner of Parks and Recreation Karen Ranney Wolkins said.

"Parks are a magnificent place to remove barriers and make everyone feel welcome."

For Henry, the day was exactly what she had hoped for. "I just love the water. I love being in it. I love being around it. It's fun," she said.

The effort comes during Disability Pride Month in July, which highlights accessibility, inclusion and community participation.

"July is recognized as Disability Pride Month to mark the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act," Disability Manager Valerie Fatica said.

"It highlights the contributions of people with disabilities and ongoing efforts to improve access and inclusion. The Department of Parks and Recreation work to spotlight accessible features at facilities so people with disabilities feel welcome and included."

"Today we launch our new Explore Without Limits Pass, designed to encourage individuals with disabilities to visit more than a dozen different park locations that are purposefully designed with access in mind," Commissioner Karen Ranney Wolkins said.

"With each visit, participants collect points which are then redeemable for merchandise. From fun T-shirts, to cooling towels, to tote bags; there's something that will make everyone smile."

"I am very proud of our city for not only elevating the conversation about ability and access but also for creating this fun and engaging initiative, Explore Without Limits," Monica McCain, M.Ed., special parent liaison with Toledo Public Schools Office of Supports for Students with Disabilities, said.

"As a parent of a teen with multiple disabilities, I am sure I echo the sentiments of many families who experience barriers when accessing public spaces. Explore Without Limits is a wonderful opportunity to experience the inclusive spaces that our city offers. It affirms the sentiment that everyone belongs here for families like mine and for individuals with disabilities. After all, fun is for everyone."

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