Find Help, Hope & More at Arlington’s Disability Expo on May 17, 2025
Published on May 12, 2025
By Office of Communication
Living with a disability can come with challenges, but in Arlington, you’re never alone. The National Federation of the Blind of Texas (NFBTX) Arlington Chapter is proudly hosting its third annual Disability Resource Expo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 17 in the Community Room of the Southwest Branch Library, 3311 SW Green Oaks Blvd.
This free, in-person event will bring together more than a dozen organizations dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities live more connected, informed, and independent lives. From adaptive technology to service animals and community support programs, this expo is all about empowering people and building bridges.
“We work to promote better services and opportunities for blind children in education, adults needing help adjusting to blindness, those seeking services from the state in rehabilitation, and job seekers working toward maximum employment,” said Jodie Desmond, president of the NFBTX Arlington Chapter. “We educate the community through public speaking, events like the Disability Resource Expo, and fundraising that supports scholarships for our members to attend national and state conventions.”
This expo aims to foster inclusion and connection across Arlington. Families, caregivers, and individuals can explore services ranging from vocational rehabilitation to accessible transit, as well as learn about programs for blind children and how to get involved in puppy raising for future guide dogs.
“We (NFBTX Arlington Chapter) want to provide a great way to network with community organizations that offer resources for all levels of disabilities and blindness,” Desmond said.
Vendors at this year’s expo include Guide Dogs for the Blind, The Seeing Eye, Christal Vision, Inc., Mission Arlington, and REACH Centers for Independent Living, among others. The event will also highlight one of the City of Arlington’s most essential services for older adults and people with disabilities Handitran.
To support the transportation needs of Arlington’s senior and disabled residents, the City offers Handitran, a dependable, door-to-door rideshare service that has been operating since 1981. Designed specifically for those 65 and older, as well as individuals with disabilities, Handitran covers destinations within Arlington and extends service up to 1.5 miles beyond city limits.
Eligible residents can apply for Handitran and learn more about ride pricing and scheduling options by visiting the City of Arlington’s Handitran webpage.