A2CF had the opportunity to write an article for the Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota. It was for their Impact Paper. The article was on loneliness, one of the motivators for starting our organization. We're very excited to post the article here for all to read. We hope you enjoy the article!

https://publications.ici.umn.edu/impact/38-1/access-to-community-and-friendship?_draft=463428ea-7516-436e-a641-87ef71c7fc83

Austin Carr, Andrew Carr, Tatiana Thomas, and Elizabeth Gray are self-advocates and co-founders of the organization Access 2 Community and Friendship of the greater Boston area.

Photo credit Mix 104.1

By Karson & Kennedy August 12, 20249:17 am

This morning we spoke to our good friend Austin who told us about a new program he has helped develop called Access 2 Community & Friendship. Access 2 Community and Friendship - is a Boston-based social group/club comprised of young adults with disabilities 22+ years of age. Events are designed by young adults with disabilities to promote accessible social events in the community spaces with universal access for all.

Matty Tricca from Brain Shapes

Interviews Austin, Lizzie, Tatiana and Andrew about how Access 2 Community and Friendship started.

They also discussed their backgrounds and Advocacy work. Matty participates in A2CF events.

https://youtu.be/AqurxEmxjCA?si=dm6hg8NifutDDBAW

FROM: SELF-ADVOCACY WINS

https://www.selfadvocacywins.com

FROM: THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE

What started in a garage has grown into a movement of joy and belonging. When the pandemic highlighted isolation in our community, Andrew, Austin, Tatiana, and Lizzie created a space where young adults of all abilities could connect and thrive. Through free, accessible events, A2CAF is weaving a vibrant social fabric where everyone belongs-from museum trips to baseball games, they're proving that friendship knows no bounds. One gathering at a time, they're building a more connected Cambridge.