Want to add some exciting new activities to your life? Abilities Expo showcases a wide range of events that not only entertain you - they also give you the opportunity to try new things, expand your interests and discover ways to be more involved in the local Los Angeles area.
More events added each week. Check back for details!
- Try a variety of adaptive sports
- Transform your face at the face painters
- Learn how to work with assistance dogs
- Break out your dancing wheels
- Find out what horses can do for people with disabilities
There’s a lot going on at Abilities Expo! Be sure to also check out the Free Workshops.
* Please note dates and times of events are subject to change without notice. Please check the schedule at the show for final times and events. Abilities Expo is not responsible for the materials or opinions of the speakers.
Here's what we did in 2013. Stay tuned for 2014!
All Day Every Day
Adaptive Climbing Wall
Presented by HDIS, Home Delivery Incontinent Supplies Co, Inc.
Adaptive climbing is not just for the experienced athlete. This activity is for anyone, including those with disabilities, who has the desire to explore and try something different. There's no better person to learn from than Mark Wellman of No Limits. Mark has SCI and is an adventure athlete, speaker and author, and he will be on hand to demonstrate his innovative adaptive climbing techniques and adaptive sports gear. Using Mark’s custom climbing equipment, anyone with a disability can participate! Climbing has tremendous benefits including building confidence, developing goal-setting skills, increasing strength and improving flexibility. And it's fun! Mark is a former Paralympian and Park Ranger, and is the first paraplegic to summit El Capitan and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. He dedicates his time to improving the quality of life for adults and children with disabilities including our disabled war veterans. Learn more at www.nolimitstahoe.com.
For more, click here.
Adaptive Rowing Demonstrations and the RowOfLife Ocean Rowing Boat - Booth #231
Presented by Angela Madsen, California Adaptive Rowing Programs and RowOfLife
Try an adaptive rowing machine and discover how it can open up the world of adaptive rowing for you. This is a sport that is accessible to most people with disabilities. Learn about the many benefits of rowing, such as exercise, fitness, improving self-esteem, setting goals and the sense of accomplishment that comes from your hard work. Angela and other disabled rowers will be on hand to assist you. Hear what Angela has achieved as a disabled athlete - she is the only person with a disability to have rowed across 2 oceans (Atlantic and Indian), is a 2008 (Beijing) and 2012 (London) Paralympian, and a World Rowing Record Holder. Learn more at www.rowoflife.com.
Free Professional Photos - Booth 325
Presented by JWJ Photography
John Washington Jr. of JWJ Photography is on a photo expedition to open the eyes of his students, and the world at large, to the vast possibilities of portrait photography. He feels that the work of many photographers have too narrow a focus and are not inclusive enough of subjects with disabilities. So, get ready for your close-up! JWJ Photography is excited to offer FREE PROFESSIONAL 5" x 7" PORTRAITS of anyone with a disability. Stop by booth #325, have your picture taken and you'll leave with a wonderful monento of your Expo expereience.
Adaptive Pinball Machine - Booth #900
Presented by Disabled Dealer Magazine
The Adaptive Pinball Machine has effectively leveled the pinball playing field for people with disabilities. This arcade-style game can be played using both hands, one hand, fists, wrists, elbows, feet, heads, chins or even by blowing into a straw - encouraging anyone with a disability to test their skill. The pinball machine is wheelchair height to allow the user to roll up and play without difficulty. The console consists of 3 oversized, brightly colored buttons that activate the spring used to propel the ball into the playfield and control the flippers to keep the ball in action. Players may also operate the machine through switches that can be attached to the headrest.
Meet Patches the Clown – Booth #134
Presented by L.A. Goal/Inside Out Productions
“Patches the Clown” is a member of L.A. Goal where he is an artist with Inside Out Productions, an art program for adults with developmental disabilities that provides them with paid employment opportunities. “Patches” will be clowning around with kids at the show. Learn more at www.lagoal.org.
Friday, March 15, 2013
11:00pm – 11:45pm
Ms. Wheelchair California 2013 Platform Speeches
Presented by the Ms. Wheelchair California Pageant
The Ms. Wheelchair California 2013 Pageant is taking place at Abilities Expo LA! Hear the contestants present their platform speeches. Then join us Saturday at 3:45pm for the finals of the competition. The pageant selects an accomplished spokeswoman for California's disability community based on her advocacy and activities representing her disability and the disability community. The selection is not based on any outward appearances but only on the contestant's work and actions advocating for the disability community. To learn more, please go to www.mswheelchairca.org.
1:00pm – 1:30pm
Power Soccer Skills Demo
U.S. Power Soccer Association
Watch and learn as US Power Soccer Association Team USA members demonstrate how they train players in the techniques of power wheelchair soccer. Discover this very active and growing sport that is open to power wheelchair users of all ages. See how players combine their skills as wheelchair users with the speed and power of the chair itself, to participate in this extremely challenging game similar to soccer. Then try the sport out for yourself and learn where you can get involved in the Los Angeles area. Learn more about power soccer at www.powersoccerusa.net.
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Meet and Greet with Rupert Isaacson, author of "The Horse Boy" - Booth #148
Rupert Isaacson, author of "The Horse Boy" and founder of Horse Boy Method will be available to talk with individual attendees at Booth #148. Horse Boy World items will be available for purchase, including the book "The Horse Boy," the movie The Horse Boy, DVD's about Horse Boy Method, t-shirts and more.
* Don't miss Rupert's workshop about Horse Boy Method on Saturday, March 16 from 11:45am to 12:45pm. Click here for details.
2:00pm - 2:30pm
Team Hotwheelz – Dance Demo and Workshop
Presented by Walk and Roll Foundation
See a performance by the new dance group Team Hotwheelz - made up of seven young women who use wheelchairs and share a passion for dance. The Team is excited to share their brand new hip-hop dance routines with Abilities Expo attendees. Following the performance it's your turn! Everyone will have a chance to get out on the dance floor and learn some moves. Follow the Team and learn more about them at www.walkandrollfoundation.org.
3:00pm – 3:30pm
Assistance Dogs Demonstration
Presented by Canine Angels Service Teams
More than ever assistance dogs are meeting the needs of people with different disabilities. Meet several assistance dogs and their human partners. Watch them demonstrate the many ways they work together to achieve independence in various areas of their lives. Following the demo, join us to learn some of the basic commands for the dogs. To learn more visit www.canine-angels.org.
4:00pm – 4:30pm
Bethune Theatredanse Performance and Mini-Class
Presented by Bethune Theatredanse
Bethune Theatredanse is the first professional dance company in America that created a participatory program for disabled youth. Today the organization offers dance and drama classes, together with the thrill of confidence-building performances, to children who are physically, emotionally, and cognitively disabled. By participating in the worlds of dance and drama children with disabilities affirm their unique capabilities and enjoy the creation, the sharing, and the partaking that is the beauty of dance. Enjoy two performances by members of the company followed by a mini-class for Abilities Expo attendees. Learn more at www.bethuneinfinitedreams.org.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
During the day on Saturday only
Therapy Wolves
Presented by Lockwood Animal Rescue Center
Meet the wolves of Lockwood Animal Rescue Center. These wolves assist veterans with employment and re-integration into society. They have found that locating the source of an individual’s trauma and diagnosing his or her disability is often too clinical and difficult. Instead, they give people with disabilities full-time employment and, by extension, a purpose. The program allows veterans the opportunity to step outside the clinical setting and heal in a more natural environment. In addition, they offer peer support and guidance throughout the healing process with the help of their majestic animal companions. Visit www.warriorsandwolves.org for more information.
10:00am – 12:00pm
Live Broadcast of KABC Radio's The Medical Show with Dr. David Kipper and Peter Tilden
Presented by KABC 790 AM Talk Radio
KABC 790 AM Talk Radio show hosts Dr. David A. Kipper and Peter Tilden will broadcast their program, The Medical Show, LIVE from the floor of Abilities Expo, right in the registration area! Come early on Saturday at 10:00 am (one hour before show opening) and get answers to your questions on health-related issues form this renowned physician. Dr. Kipper has extensive experience with treatments for people with disabilities. He has practiced medicine for more than 35 years and has treated patients with multiple sclerosis, congenital disorders, stroke and more. Opportunities to pick the brain of a medical guru are few and far between, so come equipped with your questions because the doctor is in!
11:00pm – 11:45am
Ms. Wheelchair California 2013 Platform Speeches
Presented by the Ms. Wheelchair California Pageant
The Ms. Wheelchair California 2013 Pageant is taking place at Abilities Expo LA! Hear the contestants present their platform speeches. Then be sure to stop back to the Events Arena at 3:45pm for the finals of the competition. The pageant selects an accomplished spokeswoman for California's disability community based on her advocacy and activities representing her disability and the disability community. The selection is not based on any outward appearances but only on the contestant's work and actions advocating for the disability community. To learn more, please go to www.mswheelchairca.org.
12:00pm – 3:00pm
Face Painting
Kids will delight at the opportunity to transform their face into a beautiful butterfly, a swashbuckling pirate, or a sweet kitten! Stop by the face painter’s stand for a complimentary face painting. Select designs only. Paints are FDA approved professional face paints and wash off with water. Just for kids age 18 and under.
12:00pm - 12:30pm
Assistance Dogs Demonstration
Presented by Canine Angels Service Teams
More than ever assistance dogs are meeting the needs of people with different disabilities. Meet several assistance dogs and their human partners. Watch them demonstrate the many ways they work together to achieve independence in various areas of their lives. Following the demo, join us to learn some of the basic commands for the dogs. To learn more visit www.canine-angels.org.
1:00pm – 1:45pm
Ballroom and Latin Wheelchair Dancing Demonstration and Workshop
Presented by Wheelchairdancers.org with Wheelchair Dance Director Joe Torres
Learn wheelchair dancing from the first organization to offer classes in Southern CA! First, sit back and enjoy two great dance routines including the Batchata Dance. Then it's your turn to learn some steps! Attendees of all ages and mobility levels are welcome to join us to learn some steps and put together Abilities Expo's first, official Flash Mob. Able-bodied individuals are welcomed! Wheelchair Dancing crosses the boundaries of age, gender, and physical ability and includes individuals using manual or power chairs with varying levels of ability. Learn more at www.wheelchairdancers.org.
1:00pm – 2:30pm
Meet and Greet with Rupert Isaacson, author of "The Horse Boy" - Booth #148
Rupert Isaacson, author of "The Horse Boy" and founder of Horse Boy Method will be available to talk with individual attendees at Booth #148. Horse Boy World items will be available for purchase, including the book "The Horse Boy," the movie The Horse Boy, DVD's about Horse Boy Method, t-shirts and more.
* Don't miss Rupert's workshop about Horse Boy Method on Saturday, March 16 from 11:45am to 12:45pm. Click here for details.
2:00pm – 2:30pm
Team Hotwheelz – Dance Demo and Workshop
Presented by Walk and Roll Foundation
See a performance by the new dance group Team Hotwheelz - made up of seven young women who use wheelchairs and share a passion for dance. The Team is excited to share their brand new hip-hop dance routines with Abilities Expo attendees. Following the performance it's your turn! Everyone will have a chance to get out on the dance floor and learn some moves. Follow the Team and learn more about them at www.walkandrollfoundation.org.
2:45pm - 3:30pm
Power Soccer Demo
Presented by the U.S. Power Soccer Association
Watch and learn as US Power Soccer Association Team USA members demonstrate and train attendees on the techniques of power wheelchair soccer. Discover this very active and growing sport that is open to power wheelchair users of all ages. See how players combine their skills as wheelchair users with the speed and power of the chair itself, to participate in this extremely challenging game similar to soccer. Then try the sport out for yourself and learn where you can get involved in the San Jose area. Learn more about power soccer at www.powersoccerusa.net.
3:45pm – 4:45pm
Finals of the Ms. Wheelchair California 2013 Competition
Presented by the Ms. Wheelchair California Pageant
The Ms. Wheelchair California 2011 Pageant takes place at Abilities Expo LA! Hear the finalists as they compete in the finals of the competition. See Ms. Wheelchair California 2013 crowned! The pageant is designed to select the most accomplished and articulate woman to speak for Californians with disabilities. Judges select a winner who radiates beauty and poise because of her accomplishments, presentation skills and personality (outward appearance is not judged!). Learn more at www.mswheelchairca.org.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
12:00pm – 12:30pm
Laughter Chair Yoga
Presented by Janis Lukstein, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader
This is your chance to try something new and fun, and laugh while doing it! Laughter Yoga is a playful way to laugh away stress, improve your health and promote healing. No standing is necessary as Janis Lukstein, a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader, will guide you through fun exercises that include everything from nonverbal movement and gibberish, to breath-work and laughter. A lot of fun, these techniques also promote communication and interpersonal contact. Studies have proven that laughter plays a role in healing, pain relief, staying healthy, controlling stress and maintain emotional balance. Laughter has been rediscovered as a powerful tool in the battle against mental and physical diseases. Learn more about this unique practice at www.laughteryogaamerica.com or www.laughteryogainternational.org.
12:00pm – 3:00pm
Face Painting
Kids will delight at the opportunity to transform their face into a beautiful butterfly, a swashbuckling pirate, or a sweet kitten! Stop by the face painter’s stand for a complimentary face painting. Select designs only. Paints are FDA approved professional face paints and wash off with water. Just for kids age 18 and under.
1:00pm - 1:30pm
Team Hotwheelz – Dance Demo and Workshop
Presented by Walk and Roll Foundation
See a performance by the new dance group Team Hotwheelz - made up of seven young women who use wheelchairs and share a passion for dance. The Team is excited to share their brand new hip-hop dance routines with Abilities Expo attendees. Following the performance it's your turn! Everyone will have a chance to get out on the dance floor and learn some moves. Follow the Team and learn more about them at www.walkandrollfoundation.org.
2:00pm – 2:30pm
Assistance Dogs Demonstration
Presented by Canine Angels Service Teams
More than ever assistance dogs are meeting the needs of people with different disabilities. Meet several assistance dogs and their human partners. Watch them demonstrate the many ways they work together to achieve independence in various areas of their lives. Following the demo, join us to learn some of the basic commands for the dogs. To learn more visit www.canine-angels.org.
2:45pm - 3:15pm
Top 10 Style Tips
Stephanie Thomas, Professor of Fashion, Art Institute of California, MSA Candidate in Fashion Journalism
Discover ten common style tips for looking your best! Stephanie Thomas is a disability stylist and teaches fashion at the Art Institute of California. Her tips will cover such topics as looking great on a budget, what to do about shoes, buying clothes off the rack in stores, tips for mobility device users, as well as for other disabilities such as if you are an amputee or use crutches.
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