Everyone loves a comeback story. Anyone who overcomes obstacles to do some good in other people’s lives can be seen as a trailblazer or something very similar. These people see a problem and work tirelessly to either improve or outright solve the issues before them. They are also at the forefront of change.
Such is the case of Tina Guenette. She survived multiple cancer diagnoses, heart attacks, and strokes, only to become a wheelchair user ten years ago, due to complications stemming from minor surgery. Five years ago, Tina founded Real Access Motivates Change (RAMP) to educate and advocate the public about accessibility and inclusion. She works with local, state, and federal officials on these topics, so that more people are able to participate in events that may come as second nature to most other people.
Tina’s situation opened her eyes to the many people who already face challenges getting from place to place.
“When I started going to events, I discovered that I couldn’t get into them,” she said. “There would be stairs or other barriers that would prevent me from entering. Add those who use crutches, canes, and wheelchairs, and the number of people who cannot access a building rises to 55 percent. That is a large part of the population that is not being served,” she continued.
“If businesses want to make more money, then they need to open their minds toward including more people who can visit,” Tina added.
Tina began RAMP five years ago, after seeing first-hand what many others like her experience daily. Her mission is showing the ways access can be improved positively. She wants to make it easier for those with accessibility issues to gain entry into establishments. While she’s happy with the progress that has happened, she is well aware that there is more work to be done.
For example, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) was written 34 years ago. Since its inception, there have been limited changes to the statute to keep up with the advances in technology, and life in general. Most people see improvement with bathrooms and front doors. However, even with that, it still can be a barrier toward complete access.
“If the entrance has even one step, if the doors open up the wrong way, or if going to festivals where the event tables are placed too close, and/or a food truck is parked in the wrong place, then those facilities become inaccessible,” Tina said. “A simple change in layout can make all the difference.”
With RAMP, Tina will go into a place and roll around, to point out areas that could be changed. There is no charge for this service, and the company or establishment involved can take the necessary steps to becoming inclusive to all.
Another thing she would love to see more often is people with challenges having the ability to use the front door. She said that some places where she goes to speak have accessible entrances to the back or sides of the building. She believes everyone, regardless of their situation, should be able enter and exit through the same doors. Finally, when she speaks at various events, having the stage with ramps, instead of stairs, serves their needs.
Tina also made note that when it comes to purchasing a home, those with accessibility issues face certain other battles. Only a fraction of the available homes are equipped with accessibility compliance. She said those numbers need to change.
“A person who does not have accessibility issues can purchase any home. However, someone with mobility challenges cannot,” she explained. “There are grants for home modification of up to $4,500 to age-in-place, up to a $5,000 Work Ability Grant, and up to $15,000 in tax breaks, annually, for businesses to continue the process. These are geared toward businesses to accept more people. That would potentially raise their bottom line by allowing more people inside.”
In 2024, so far, RAMP is sponsoring two events. The first one occurred on May 24, at the Steelyard in Providence, with its RAMP Business Sticker Initiative. This was a significant milestone in their mission to promote accessibility and inclusion in Rhode Island. This innovative initiative was designed to recognize and support businesses that have achieved mobility aid accessibility through the roll-through by RAMP. Their goal was to empower every business to become fully accessible, utilizing the Work Ability Grant to overcome any obstacles.
“The RAMP Business Sticker Initiative was a badge of honor, symbolizing a commitment to inclusivity, and welcoming all customers, regardless of abilities. Participating businesses were listed on our website, and in the future, there will be a dedicated app, making it easy for visitors to find accessible venues across Rhode Island,” Tina explained.
Their other event called, “Accessibility is Beautiful,” will take place on August 24, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at the Steelyard, 27 Sims Ave., in Providence.
Their annual free outdoor festival celebrates diversity and inclusion, so they can all be a part of the IDEA – Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility!
To date, more than 1,500 people have registered for the event.
Anyone interested in attending this free event may do so by visiting their website at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/accessibility-is-beautiful-2024-tickets-798893410697.
RAMP breaks down barriers and proves that we are all the same—we just need proper accessibility. With the help of people with disabilities, family members, and allies, RAMP works toward educating people about and advocating for inclusion in schools, business, and the community-at-large.
RAMP is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, and 100 percent volunteer organization. They rely on donations and grants to continue their work.
Tina was appointed to the Governor’s Commission on Disability, and voted in as vice chairwoman in 2018. She was later appointed to the Commission of Aging in Rhode Island. In 2023, Tina was appointed by President Joseph Biden to the United States Access Board.
People can get involved by volunteering their time or by donating to the cause by contacting Tina at 401-524-6256, or emailing her at RAMPtina@yahoo.com.
Also, check out their RAMP Podcast that airs at 7:00 PM, sporadically throughout the month.
Additional details may be obtained by visiting their website at www.rampisinclusion.org.
