Brookings Disability Awareness Committee

10/01/2026

Join the Brookings Public Library on Friday, October 9 from 1-2pm for Accessible Social Hour in the Library’s upstairs Cooper Room.

They will have board and card games, snacks, and a fall leaf suncatcher craft so that you can choose which activity you would like to do while you socialize.

This program is open to all ages, and friends, family, and caretakers are encouraged to join in the fun too. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Mikaela Neubauer ([email protected]) if you have any questions.

The Accessible Social Hour currently follows a bi-monthly schedule, so you can also mark your calendar for the next event on December 11.

08/05/2026

News Release: The City of Brookings Disability Awareness Committee is seeking one volunteer to fill a vacant position.

People may apply online at onboard.cityofbrookings-sd.gov.

Applications must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Applications will remain on file with the City Clerk’s Office for one year from date of application and will be considered for all vacancies occurring within that time.

Details:
• Number of positions: 1
• Term Length: 3 years (term expires 1/1/2028) (filling vacated seat)
• Residency Requirement: Required for majority
• Purpose: The Brookings Disability Awareness Committee strives to advocate for the rights of people who have disabilities in our community. Throughout the year, specific events are held to bring awareness and information to our citizens.

06/19/2026

News Release: The Brookings Disability Awareness Committee is accepting nominations for the 2025 EMPOWER Award and A.B.L.E. Award (Ability, Belief, Leadership and Equality to Achieve Access for All). The nomination deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, July 17. 📅

The EMPOWER Award is designed to recognize the outstanding commitment of a business in employing and empowering disabled individuals.

The A.B.L.E. award is designed to recognize the outstanding commitment of a business or public entity in fulfilling the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

For both awards, any businesses that are nominated must be within the city of Brookings.

Nomination forms, instructions and additional information can be found at www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/BDACAwards, or by contacting the Brookings Human Resources office at:

Brookings City & County Government Center
520 Third Street, Suite 230
Brookings, SD 57006
605-697-8636
[email protected]

Read news release at https://www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/5604

06/19/2026

Check out this free learning opportunity!

Register Today! [2026 Summer Refresher Series ](https://forms.office.com/r/K25hbLUXP6) Join us this summer for the FREE Summer Refresher Series! Hear from nationally recognized speakers Patrick Schwarz, Derrick Dufresne, and additional presenters as we explore topics that inspire learning, leadership, and inclusion.
*Thursdays, July 9 – August 13
*1:00–3:00 PM CT
*Attend live or watch on demand
Watch for speaker profiles and session descriptions coming soon. Register today!

04/27/2026

Are you a family with neurodivergent kids? Mindful Village is a local, parent-run support group* that hosts regular inclusive social events.

Their next event is a plant "make & take" at McCrory Gardens! 🪴
Neurodivergent families will gather together, learn about plant needs, plant a pothos, socialize and explore the gardens.

📆 Tuesday, May 19th 4:30-6:00 p.m.
📍 McCrory Gardens (631 22nd Ave Brookings, SD)

All ages are welcome! They ask that individuals RSVP so they can ensure they have enough materials.

1:1 child support is available from South Dakota State University professor Dr. Lacy Knutson and her students, but does require an RSVP and a request for a 1:1.

*not affiliated with/sponsored by the Brookings Disability Awareness Committee or City of Brookings Government

03/31/2026

You're invited! 📖

Commit to Change ABA Therapy & Consulting, LLC is launching a book study for you to learn strategies that will help you and your child address anxiety 🧠✨

Commit to Change received a mini-grant from the BDAC to help fund this project!

Reach out to [email protected] with any questions.

03/31/2026

Let's kick off ! ♾️

Join Lucas P. Wintrode Autism Support Services in the Campanile Room/Hobo Day Lounge on the South Dakota State University campus for a community event focused on autism and education.

📆 April 1, 2026
⏰ 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.