Champaign, Ill. (Chambana Today) — An event focused on inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment will take place in Champaign this Saturday, October 18th. The Disability Resource Expo, now in its 16th year, will bring together over 70 organizations under one roof at Marketplace Mall from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering free access to an array of support services for individuals with disabilities, their families, and the broader community.

The Expo is designed to connect attendees with critical information and resources, from healthcare and housing to education, legal aid, and recreation. The event is completely free and open to all, including caregivers, seniors, educators, allies, and those simply interested in learning more about what services are available in the region. “Our goal is to remove barriers and create a space where everyone feels supported,” said Allison Boot, co-coordinator of the Expo. “It’s a chance for people to discover the help they didn’t know existed—and to feel empowered in their journey.”

A Hub of Resources

This year’s Expo will feature a wide range of service providers, including those specializing in special education, mental health, mobility support, and financial planning. Exhibitors like Personal Mobility will offer demonstrations of accessible vehicles, giving attendees an opportunity to explore transportation options in a hands-on way.

Thrivent Financial, the Expo’s featured sponsor for the second year in a row, will provide guidance on financial planning and special needs trusts—topics that are often top-of-mind for families of individuals with disabilities. “Financial planning is a source of stress for many families,” Boot noted. “Thrivent helps ease those worries by offering solutions built specifically for the disability community.”

To hear the full Community Focus interview, click here: Stream episode Focus – Disability Resource Expo by Illini Media Group podcast | Listen online for free on SoundCloud

Accessibility First

True to its mission of inclusion, the Expo has prioritized accessibility in every aspect of planning. On-site ASL (American Sign Language) and Spanish interpreters will be available, along with wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and expanded accessible parking.

Thanks to a partnership with Disability Resources and Educational Services (DRES) at the University of Illinois, a free shuttle service will be provided between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. The shuttle will operate between the Neil & Center Street corner and the mall to ensure safe access for those using public transportation. Law enforcement will also be present to assist with street crossings.

Family-Friendly Features

The Expo is designed to be inclusive for all ages. Families with children will enjoy interactive activities, including a police cruiser display, and new this year, a sensory-friendly play space hosted by Champaign Unit 4 Schools. This dedicated space will offer sensory toys and a calm environment for children with autism and sensory sensitivities. Unit 4 will also host workshops to help parents better understand the needs and educational rights of their children. “It’s more than just a resource fair,” said Boot. “It’s a space where families can find community, learn, and feel seen.”

Volunteers Needed

With hundreds of attendees expected, the Expo is still welcoming volunteers to assist with event operations. Volunteer roles range from welcoming guests and helping with mobility needs to providing assistance to exhibitors. Those interested can sign up at www.disabilityresourceexpo.org/volunteer, and hours can count toward community service or school credit. “We couldn’t do this without our volunteers,” Boot said. “This is a community effort, and everyone has something to contribute.”

A Year-Round Impact

In addition to the one-day event, organizers publish a comprehensive Resource Guide, listing contact information and services offered by all exhibitors. The guide is distributed at other community events and is also available year-round on the Expo’s website. “The Expo might be one day, but the impact lasts all year,” said Boot. “We want people to know that help is always available—and that they don’t have to navigate it alone.”