How-To Festival Highlights Accessibility in the Home
This past weekend, Connect the Dots, powered by PNC, got to hang out with the Louisville Free Public Library during the How-To Festival! Guests from across Jefferson County were invited to attend free classes in gardening, cooking, calligraphy, tending to chickens, and so much more! We were thrilled to be part of the excitement, sharing hands-on tools that highlighted inclusive design in the home and sparked creativity in learners of all ages.
Over 250 guests came by our tables to see how they could incorporate accessible and inclusive adaptations in their home! Some features that might come to mind include accessibility features like ramps instead of stairs, wider doorways for wheelchair access, grab bars in restrooms, and adjustable-height counters or sinks. There’s so much more you can do to ensure all your visitors feel comfortable and welcome — and many of these options are cost-efficient!
The first station featured a kitchen setup where guests could try out a variety of adaptive tools designed to enhance independence and safety. From measuring spoons labeled with braille, to one-armed cutting boards, and utensils with ergonomic, easy-grip handles, the kitchen was full of practical solutions for guests to try out! At the bedroom station, attendees discovered how a few thoughtful changes can transform a bedroom into a universal retreat. They learned about smart lighting options, easy-reach organizers, and could even demo our bed shakers that support daily morning routines.
At the final station, Connect the Dots featured several ways to adapt toys for every child’s enjoyment! Children were able to rock back and forth on our teeter popper, challenge our volunteers to GIANT UNO, and play iSpy using tactile and high-contrast figures, as well as Scrabble with large-print and braille letter tiles. These activities encouraged social interaction, sensory engagement, and inclusive fun for all kids. It was wonderful to see so many smiles and everyone’s genuine excitement as they experienced firsthand how small adaptations can greatly enhance the way young learners connect and play with their friends!
Jo Haas, Vice President of Advancement and The Dot Experience had this to share, “I really enjoyed being part of the team engaging with folks at the Library How-To Festival last weekend. It was so great to see the light bulb go off for kids and adults alike as they were testing out adaptive equipment and beginning to understand how some of the simplest strategies around the house can help someone if they are disabled. They were also quick to realize that a disabled person doesn’t always want to have to ask a friend for help – they want to be independent, once they put themselves in that mindset. The other ‘a-ha moment’ for folks was that any one of us, at any time, may fall and break an arm and not be able to peel a carrot or tie our shoe for a while. Or recognizing that older adults begin to lose grip strength, and have challenges holding utensils or paint brushes, in a similar way to someone developing Muscular Dystrophy.”
Guests’ faces lit up with understanding as they realized that accessibility features don’t just support people with disabilities — they actually make everyday life easier and more comfortable, helping to create spaces that are truly welcoming for everyone. That moment of realization captured the heart of our work — and it’s exactly the mission The Dot Experience will embrace when we open our doors in October 2026! Thank you to PNC and LFPL for sharing the excitement with us!