The Genesee County Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commission welcomed Jessica Dixon of The Disability Network as the guest speaker at its July 21 meeting at the Genesee County Administration Building.

Dixon, a community advocate and peer specialist, shared a learning moment that encouraged commissioners to reflect on disability, accessibility and the importance of listening to people with lived experience. Her presentation also highlighted the role everyone can play in creating a community in which people of all abilities are respected, included and empowered.

The Disability Network is a nonprofit Center for Independent Living that has served Genesee County since 1992. The organization works alongside people with disabilities to help them live as independently as possible while promoting a community in which they experience true belonging. 

The Disability Network provides a broad range of person-centered programs, including:

• Advocacy and assistance understanding disability rights
• Independent living skills development
• Information and referrals to community resources
• Peer support and counseling
• Assistance transitioning from nursing facilities into community-based living
• Youth programs focused on relationships, career exploration and preparation for adulthood

Through these services, individuals receive critical support while maintaining control over their own goals and decisions. The organization also works with businesses, public agencies and community partners to identify barriers and create more accessible and inclusive environments.

The impact of that work can be seen throughout Genesee County. In 2025, The Disability Network served 1,118 people, provided 4,510 hours of service and installed 49 home-accessibility ramps.

Dixon’s visit provided the commission with another opportunity to learn directly from a local organization doing meaningful work to advance equity. It also reinforced an important message: Disability inclusion is not simply about meeting minimum requirements. It is about removing barriers, valuing individual contributions and making sure everyone has an opportunity to participate fully in community life.

Community Invited to ADA Day 2026

Genesee County residents can continue the conversation by attending ADA Day 2026: Rights in Action on Friday, July 24, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley Street in Flint.

The free event is open to the public and will provide information about rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, workplace protections and ways people can use their voices and personal experiences to create change.

The program will include a disability-rights keynote address, an employment-rights session and a panel discussion about creating change within the community. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with advocates and learn how they can support disability rights and accessibility.

Anyone who needs an accommodation to participate may contact Katie at katiec@disnetwork.org.

About the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission

The Genesee County Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commission serves as an advisory commission to the Genesee County Board of Commissioners. This Commission is comprised of members of the Board of Commissioners, Genesee County employees and Genesee County residents.

The goals of the commission are to increase awareness of social injustice and its effects, to improve fair and equal treatment for all, to enhance the county’s reputation as being welcoming to all, and to equip and empower people to resolve social justice issues by focusing on:

• Health equity
• The Board’s policies and budget priorities
• The hiring, training, diversification, and projects related to county employees
• Public safety
• Procurement

For more information, contact Jerome Threlkeld, Organizational Development Coordinator, at JThrelkeld@GeneseeCountyMI.gov.