Upstream Access

“Subsequent to the resignation of Disability Equity Center board and election of Upstream Access board members, new bylaws were created.”

“The members of the Board are provided annual financial statements and the 990. The Finance Committee reviews the 990 prior to submission.”

“Potential board members are asked if they have any potential conflicts of interest and sign a conflict of interest policy yearly.”

“The process for the Director of Advocacy Supports as the lead staff position includes benchmarking, Finance Committee review, and board approval.”

“Board officers are not compensated.”

“The public may ask a staff member via email at [email protected].”

“The Executive Director and one of the board members, Laura Ridler, are life partners.”

“On October 24, 2023, all Disability Equity Center board members resigned and new board members for Upstream Access were voted in. On December 11, 2023, the Oregon Secretary of State recognized the name change. Upstream Access created new bylaws.”

“MISSION STATEMENT: Upstream Access is a cross-disability community committed to supporting the resilience of fellow disabled people in Oregon and Southwest Washington. We celebrate disability as a culture and source of creative strength. We invest our collective wisdom to advocate for positive change. We partner with allies who share our vision of equity and access in all landscapes. These Upstream Access (UA) programs, implemented formally when UA became a 501(c)3, are now in their first full year of official programming:PROGRAM 1: ReadySetConnect - Monthly virtual meet-up designed for our cross-disabilty commuity to share and prepare together. During these sessions, participants learn essential emergency preparedness skills and exchange vaulable resources. Registered attendees receive an accessible resources list covering all discussed topics, articles, and materilas - ensuring everyone stays informed and resilient. PROGRAM 2: Community Information Sessions (CIS) - The CIS Cohort Program is a pilot initiative aimed at promoting health equity and addressing the lack of accessible emergency preparedness resources for disabled individuals in the Portland Metro area. Over three months, UA will host monthly evening meet-ups, ensuring consistency across communities. Each sessio will focus on a specific theme:Month 1: Basic preparednessMonth 2: Power planning and the significance of solar energy for climate justiceMonth 3: Pod mapping, stress management, and resilienceParticipants will also have the opportunity to register for online alerts and messaging systems. As an incentive, at the end of each CIS, attendees will receive a solar-powered emergency itme - a total of three items. PROGRAM 3: Summer Park Meet-ups - Inclusive community gatherings in local parks. These meet-ups provide a space for disabled people to connect, engage in mindful activities, and share meaningful conversations. Whether its a leisurely roll through the park or a low-impact hike, participants can explore disability identity, culture, and pride together. Together we combat isolation and enjoy the outdoors.”