The Akron Municipal Courthouse in Akron, Ohio may have just made history as the first courthouse in America to install a universal changing station, and it’s an Ascent table! This groundbreaking addition, located in the Caregiver Room on the first floor, is designed to offer a private, secure space where individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, and their caregivers can manage diapering needs with comfort, dignity, and ease.
With the installation of Ascent, the courthouse is setting a new standard for accessibility in public spaces, ensuring that all visitors have the support they need. This move not only marks a milestone in courthouse accessibility but also highlights Akron's commitment to inclusion and respect for all.
The project was funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant dollars and coordinated by the Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board (Summit DD), which has a long history of providing inclusive services. Summit DD has been instrumental in supporting the Connect Program, founded in 2021 by Akron Municipal Court Judge Ron Cable, to assist adults with developmental disabilities in the criminal justice system. Judge Cable shared, “Summit DD has been a fantastic justice partner in Connect, and I am grateful for their assistance with this project [Ascent in Akron Municipal Courthouse] as well. Thanks to Summit DD, we are now able to ensure that all caregivers have access to this valuable on-site resource.”
Lisa Kamlowsky, Superintendent of Summit County DD, is also proud of this partnership. “The Akron Municipal Court is known for their innovative programming and services,” said Kamlowsky. “It’s a beautiful thing to have government agencies collaborating like this. The ability to provide access to a universal changing station serves both our missions.”
This exciting addition follows Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s unveiling of the first of 29 planned universal changing stations at rest areas throughout the state of Ohio just last month. “Providing accessibility for everyone is important to us,” said Administrative/Presiding Judge David Hamilton. “This addition ensures children and adults with special needs who visit our courthouse will have those needs met in a dignified, respectable manner.” The universal changing station is available to court users and the public during the building’s open hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
As a proud denizen of Summit County, Foundations is thrilled that Ascent will now help enhance the lives of families and neighbors in our community. Many of Ascent’s components – including its stainless steel shroud – come from right here in Ohio, and it is proudly assembled in the USA. We look forward to installing many more universal changing tables across the nation in 2025 and beyond!
Learn more about universal changing tables and adding Ascent into your next project.
