Meet Us: Dancing to Our Own Beat,
Leading with Our Own Light
Welcome to Strategy for Access!
We’re a bold, joyful nonprofit rooted on Chicago’s South Side with a mission that reaches far beyond. Powered by the voices and experiences of the Global Majority and people with disabilities, we use creativity, data, and community to build a more inclusive world. Dive in and discover how we’re turning advocacy into action — with heart, vision, and plenty of fun along the way.
By Us. For Us. About Us.
Strategy for Access Foundation NFP is a nonprofit based on the South Side of Chicago, reaching people across the country.
Founded in 2019 by Vanessa A. Harris, P.E. — an award-winning artist and engineer — we began by advocating for people with disabilities through film.
Today, we’ve grown to stand up for health and economic justice for people of color on many platforms.
Rooted in the Global Majority. Powered by Disability Pride.
Our mission is simple but bold: we’re by, for, and about people from the Global Majority — Black, Brown, Indigenous, and people of color everywhere — and people with disabilities, who make up the world’s largest minority.
We lift up these voices, break down barriers, and create spaces where everyone belongs.
From Films to Fitness. From Literacy to Liberation.
Our work started with powerful films. It’s grown to include literacy programs, fitness for people with disabilities, universal design projects, and disaster planning.
Each effort is another step toward a world that values every body and every story.
Designing Access. Building Justice.
With our new program, Disability Designed, we use data, AI, and engineering to spot where access is missing — then dream up creative ways to fix it.
We build models and visuals that imagine a future where everyone can participate fully.
Showing Chicago’s Doors Wide Open — in 6+ languages.
Through Accessible Chicago, we’ve produced 16 mini-documentaries that highlight the city’s many accessible cultural attractions.
We’re now translating them into six less common languages online, proving Chicago is a friendly, welcoming city for people of all abilities.
Data, AI & Imagination for a More Inclusive World.
We’re not just talking about change — we’re designing it.
By blending data, technology, and creativity, we create blueprints for a more inclusive future that serve communities worldwide.
Fun. Learning. Advocacy. For Everyone.
Discover more at Fun4theDisabled, our hub full of engaging stories, innovative ideas, and resources that push for inclusion and equity.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, helpful tools, or new ways to get involved — there’s truly something here for everyone.
Meet the Founder: Vanessa A. Harris, P.E. — Power, Purpose, Progress
Vanessa A. Harris, P.E. is a talented leader and licensed engineer with more than 30 years of experience working to protect our environment, create fair policies, and support people with disabilities. She’s great at bringing together different kinds of people to work as a team, starting important projects that fight for environmental justice, and helping communities get involved in making positive changes. Vanessa is passionate about making sure businesses, buildings, and parks are designed for everyone, caring for the Earth, and improving health and education by working together in smart and inclusive ways.
Vanessa also has a powerful personal story. She brings special understanding to her work because of her own life experiences — she’s faced mental health challenges linked to struggles passed down in her family, uses a wheelchair, and is a cancer survivor. All of this gives her a strong voice in standing up for others and making sure no one is left out.
“I’ve known the founder, Vanessa Harris, for nearly five years. She’s a strong champion of people with disabilities, acutely aware of intersectionality, and a respected ambassador, strategist, advocate, and connector.
Vanessa challenges stigma and stereotypes while advocating for inclusivity, educating those with “ableist” beliefs, inaccurate knowledge, or a lack of accommodations, who may not realize the impact on their businesses or reputation.”
Vanessa discussing the upcoming Fun4everyone2025 conference with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.
As Seen. As Heard. As Leading.
From neighborhood meetings to national media, our Executive Director’s voice is grounded in the people and powered by purpose. Their work has resonated across platforms like NBC, TEDx, and WGN because it speaks to real lives, real change, and the strength of community. This conference continues that legacy — amplifying voices that rise from the people.
Make an impact today
Keep the Momentum Going: Fuel the Future Beyond Fun4Everyone2025
The conversations, connections, and creativity sparked at this conference are just the beginning. By donating today, you help ensure that the energy and ideas born here continue to grow, supporting year-round programming, grassroots leadership, and community-driven solutions led by the global majority.
Make your contribution count beyond the event—become a sustainer of change and sign up for a recurring donation.
Assist a Revolutionary Event. Activate the Future With Us.
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Volunteers are the heart of Fun4Everyone2025. Whether you're supporting event logistics, greeting guests, managing sessions, or helping with social media, your time and energy help create a powerful, welcoming space rooted in justice, culture, and joy.
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By volunteering, you’ll build community, gain hands-on experience in event organizing, and play a direct role in uplifting the global majority. Your service strengthens Strategy for Access Foundation NFP’s mission to redistribute access, visibility, and celebration where it truly belongs—with us.
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Join us—because community power runs on collective care.
LIMITED SPACES
Secure your spot
Connect with peers and innovation experts
Enjoy food, coffee, entertaintment throughout
Join talks, discussions, panels by inspiring speakers
