DSNWK receives Dane G. Hansen Foundation grant – Hays Post

Report on Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas Grant Award for Accessible Transportation

Introduction

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) has received a significant grant award from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. The foundation granted DSNWK $100,000 to purchase two ramp-accessible vehicles, addressing the increasing demand for accessible transportation within the community.

Purpose and Impact of the Grant

The addition of these two vehicles to DSNWK’s fleet underscores the organization’s commitment to providing reliable, dignified, and inclusive transportation services. These services are crucial for individuals with evolving mobility needs, aligning closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – by facilitating access to medical appointments.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by enabling transportation to employment opportunities.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – by ensuring accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by promoting inclusive community participation.

Utilization of the Vehicles

The ramp-accessible vehicles will be used to provide essential transportation for individuals served by DSNWK. Specific uses include:

1. Transportation to medical appointments
2. Travel to employment locations
3. Attendance at educational classes
4. Shopping trips
5. Participation in community activities

Most individuals served require accessible transportation due to mobility challenges such as the use of wheelchairs, walkers, or canes. These vehicles will directly benefit these vulnerable populations by enhancing their mobility and independence.

Organizational Statement

Jerry Michaud, President of DSNWK, expressed gratitude towards the Hansen Foundation, stating:

“We are so grateful to the Hansen Foundation for their support. These vehicles will benefit some of the most vulnerable passengers in northwest Kansas. Transportation is an essential component to a strong and inclusive community and for the people we serve, it is even more important because they rely on DSNWK for their transportation needs.”

About DSNWK

DSNWK is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across 18 counties in northwestern Kansas. Their services contribute to advancing several SDGs by promoting health, inclusion, and economic participation.

For more information about DSNWK’s services and ways to support their mission, please visit www.dsnwk.org.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The article highlights transportation to medical appointments, which supports health access.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Transportation to employment and classes facilitates economic participation.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Providing accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities promotes inclusion and reduces inequalities.
4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Ensuring accessible transportation contributes to inclusive and sustainable communities.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3 – Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential health-care services and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all. (Implied through transportation to medical appointments)
2. SDG 8 – Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all, including persons with disabilities. (Implied through transportation to employment and classes)
3. SDG 10 – Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of disability. (Directly related to providing accessible transportation)
4. SDG 11 – Target 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport. (Directly related to ramp-accessible vehicles)

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

• Indicator 3.8.1: Coverage of essential health services – implied by the ability of individuals to reach medical appointments via accessible transportation.
• Indicator 8.5.2: Unemployment rate, by sex, age and persons with disabilities – implied through enabling transportation to employment.
• Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50% of median income, by disability status – implied through social inclusion efforts.
• Indicator 11.2.1: Proportion of population that has convenient access to public transport, by sex, age and persons with disabilities – directly relevant to the provision of ramp-accessible vehicles.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: hayspost.com