WPD Leads NPC23 Planners' Day of Service
On March 31, 2023, APA Divisions members convened at the Downtown Philadelphia Marriott for Planners' Day of Service (PDoS) 2023. Planners were introduced to the concepts and language of neurodiversity (the variations in the way we each experience and perceive the world) and sensory accessibility, and participants discussed the planner’s role in advancing neurodiversity acceptance, accessibility, and accommodations. Attendees gained hands-on experience, knowledge, and tools to bring home to their own communities by participating in a group sensory audit and helped assemble Calming Kits (sensory-friendly care packages) that we donated to Kamp for Kids, a Philadelphia-based non-profit organization providing fun experiences for kids on the neurodiversity spectrum. Sensory audit observations and feedback will be used to develop a brief set of sensory accessibility recommendations, including instructions for performing a sensory audit, and shared with APA staff, leaders, Divisions, and Chapters for future conferences and events.
Planners’ Day of Service 2023 was an overwhelming success, in no small part due to the help and support of multiple APA Divisions, the Divisions’ Council, and individual APA members. It may be hard to believe, but discussions about NPC24’s service event are already underway. We’d like to take this opportunity to extend an early invitation to join us in Minneapolis for what’s sure to be another rewarding Planner’s Day of Service. We hope to see you there!
Planners' Day of Service – Progress Report Planners' Day of Service – Orientation Packet
Planners' Day of Service – Neurodiversity & Sensory Accessibility Audit Information
Planners Day of Service (PDoS) is an initiative conceived and led by APA Divisions, and supported by Divisions Council grant funding. This year, PDoS was led by the Women & Planning Division, with additional financial and in-kind support from the Environment, Natural Resources and Energy Division; International Division; Planning and the Black Community; Small Town and Rural Planning Division; and the Transportation Planning Division. For more information or to participate in and/or support NPC24 Planners’ Day of Service, please email women.apa@gmail.com.