Summary: The American Occupational Therapy Association

We were lucky enough to have the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) conference in Salt Lake City this year. The conference brought in around 7,000 OT practitioners and exhibitors. To prepare for the conference, our class compiled a list of businesses that were assessable for people in a wheelchair that would be attending. We split the businesses up between our class, called the businesses assigned, and asked them the following questions: How many stairs are there to enter? Where can someone park? Do they have an accessible bathroom? Is the building wheelchair accessible? What is the distance from the Salt Palace? Is there outdoor and/or indoor seating? Is alcohol served? After collecting this information, we compiled it into an

excel spreadsheet to send to AOTA for distribution.
I was also able to volunteer at AOTA by distributing welcome bags as OT practitioners registered. This was an awesome experience that allowed for me to connect with other practitioners and lend a helping hand. I passed out bags for 3 hours and I would definitely volunteer again.
This assignment allowed for me to collaborate with different business and assess if their buildings were suitable for someone in a wheelchair. In class, we learned the importance of wheelchair accessibility. When a building is accessible, the person is not limited and increases independence. I was surprised by how many businesses were not accessible. One class objective was to advocate for persons with disabilities and this assignment allowed for me to do that. The spreadsheet allowed for people to come to Utah and not have to worry about the possibility of a business not being accessible.
This assignment was small but made a huge impact for people who require accessible buildings. I am so glad that I able to give back and help people in need. This assignment gives me a sense of motivation to advocate for clients who may require the same needs.