The ADA defines a public accommodation as "a private entity that owns, operates, leases, or leases to, a place of public accommodation". Restaurants, hotels, doctors' offices, retail stores, museums, libraries, parks and private schools are examples of public accommodations. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, certain accessibility issues must be addressed in these settings. For questions and answers concerning accessibility issues, visit: www.eeoc.gov/facts/adaqa2.html

In the United States, people with disabilities are the largest minority. It is clear that work needs to continue to eliminate the physical and attitudinal barriers that keep people with disabilities from having access to programs, services and technology. Community-based programs can make a strong statement about the importance of planning and providing accessibility to enable people with disabilities to fully participate in their communities. For information on what you can do to make your community-based program more accessible, visit: www.ataccess.org/resources/acaw/startingpoints.html.

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires that all public entities ensure that they are accessible by conducting a self evaluation of its programs, policies and procedures. Having an understanding of accessibility standards and guidelines are necessary in order to conduct such an evaluation.